My Friend Isabelle
What’s inside...
My Friend Isabelle by Eliza Woloson is a heartwarming tale that celebrates the friendship between two children, Charlie and Isabelle, who has Down syndrome. This charming story emphasizes themes of acceptance, equality, and true friendship. Through simple, engaging text and beautiful illustrations, young readers learn to appreciate individual differences and the value of inclusion. Ideal for sparking conversations about diversity and kindness, this book is perfect for young children beginning to understand the world around them. The story not only highlights their similarities, such as their mutual enjoyment of drawing, dancing, reading, and playing at the park, but also their differences, notably that Isabelle has Down syndrome while Charlie does not. Written by Isabelle's mother, this narrative encourages readers to think about what makes a friendship special and opens the door for young children to talk about differences and the world around them. It's a wonderful story to read at bedtime or to share at school, enhanced by lively full-color illustrations that dovetail beautifully with the text to bring the simple story to life.
Age
2-5
Length
28 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Charlie
Isabelle
Discussion points
How did Charlie and Isabelle show their friendship in the story?
What makes Isabelle special, and why do you think Charlie enjoys spending time with her?
How do you think Charlie felt when people noticed differences between him and Isabelle?
Can you think of a time when you helped a friend like Charlie helps Isabelle?
What do you think we can all learn from Charlie and Isabelle about friendship?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they think makes someone a good friend. This can set a reflective mood and make connections to the plot.
Highlight moments in the book where Charlie and Isabelle are enjoying activities together, and relate them to your child’s experiences with friends.
Discuss the feelings and actions of both characters to help your child understand different perspectives and empathize with both friends.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of themselves with their best friend doing something they love, reinforcing the theme of friendship.
After finishing the book, ask your child how they could be a good friend to others, turning the book’s message into actionable ideas.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Differences
Explanation: The story highlights the friendship between Charlie and Isabelle, who has Down syndrome. This relationship shows that differences do not define the quality of friendship and everyone can be valued and included.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by being open to forming friendships with peers who might seem different from them. This nurtures inclusivity and empathy from a young age.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: As Charlie and Isabelle share experiences, from playing to learning together, the book showcases how true friendship involves support, understanding, and fun.
Real-World Application: Children learn to build and maintain meaningful relationships, understanding that friendship requires empathy, support, and shared joys.
Example Lesson: Celebrating Individual Strengths
Explanation: The book illustrates that both Charlie and Isabelle have unique strengths. Isabelle’s condition doesn't keep her from contributing positively to the friendship.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to recognize and celebrate their own and others' unique strengths, boosting self-esteem and mutual respect among peers.