Mail Harry to the Moon!
What’s inside...
Nobody told this older brother that having a new little brother would mean big changes, and he's FED UP! It's time to mail Harry to the moon so life can go back to the way it was before. No more spit-up! No more grabbing! No more wailing in the night! But along the way, baby Harry might just help our hero see that being a big brother means more than just a big nuisance—it means adventure and friendship, too. Known for their keen grasp of the ups and downs of childhood, bestselling author-illustrator team Robie H. Harris and Michael Emberley offer kids and parents a lively look at the lighter side of getting along with the baby in the house.
Discussion points
How would you feel if someone you cared about was sent to the moon?
What are some ways you can show kindness to your siblings or friends when you're feeling frustrated?
What do you think Harry learned from his adventure to the moon?
Can you think of a time when you wished for something silly and then changed your mind?
Why do you think it's important to talk about our feelings instead of acting out?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, introduce your child to the concept of sibling rivalry and discuss any similar feelings they might have experienced.
Use expressive voice modulation and facial expressions to make the reading experience more dynamic and immersive, especially when depicting emotion.
After reading, share a personal story about dealing with frustrations or misunderstandings with siblings or friends to help your child relate.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of their favorite part of the book, discussing the emotions and lessons depicted in their artwork.
Ask your child to reflect on different ways the story could have ended and how those endings might change the story's message.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding sibling dynamics
Explanation: This book humorously addresses the common feelings of jealousy and annoyance that an older sibling may feel towards a new baby.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize and articulate their feelings about new family members, which is a healthy step towards emotional maturity.
Example Lesson: Expressing emotions
Explanation: The story encourages expressing one's feelings in a safe environment, even if those emotions are negative, through the character of the older sibling who dreams about sending his baby brother to the moon.
Real-World Application: Children are reminded that it’s normal to have strong feelings sometimes and that talking about them is better than keeping them bottled up.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: By the end of the book, the older sibling realizes the importance of his baby brother and starts missing him, demonstrating a growth in empathy and understanding.
Real-World Application: This helps children understand the significance of family bonds and caring for one another, despite initial conflicts or feelings.
Example Lesson: Creative problem solving
Explanation: The imaginative idea of mailing someone to the moon to solve a problem highlights creativity in dealing with difficult situations, albeit in a humorous and exaggerated way.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to think creatively to solve problems and manage their feelings in unconventional ways.
Example Lesson: Resolution of conflict
Explanation: The storyline provides a narrative arc of conflict arising from sibling rivalry and its eventual resolution, showcasing the possibility of reconciliation.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that conflicts, even within the family, can be resolved through understanding and love.