Nana in the City
on Goodreads (2,815)
What’s inside...
In this 2015 Caldecott Honor Book, a young boy spends an overnight visit with his nana in the city, finding it initially frightening due to the noise, crowds, and unfamiliar elements. However, Nana helps him overcome his fears by making him a special cape, which allows him to see the city's sights, sounds, and smells as wonderful rather than scary. The book features succinct text paired with vibrant watercolor illustrations that capture the city's energy and beauty.
Age
1-5
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The Boy
Nana
Discussion points
How do you think the cape makes Nana feel when she wears it in the city?
What are some ways that the city changes from scary to wonderful throughout the story?
Why do you think the boy made a cape for his Nana?
How does the boy's view of the city change from the beginning of the book to the end?
Can you think of a time when you felt brave like Nana?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child about their feelings towards big cities or new places and relate those feelings back to the story.
Point out the illustrations showing the city’s transformation and discuss what visual cues lead to the change in perception.
Encourage your child to talk about times they felt scared and how they overcame that fear, connecting it to Nana and the boy’s experience.
After reading, together with your child, think of ways to make challenging or scary situations more manageable, similar to how the boy crafts a cape for Nana.
Have your child describe their favorite part of the book and explain why they liked it, fostering a deeper connection to the theme.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Bravery in the face of uncertainty
Explanation: The protagonist of 'Nana in the City' learns to become brave as he explores the initially intimidating urban environment with his grandmother.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face new challenges or environments with confidence, turning fear into curiosity and excitement.
Example Lesson: Importance of family support
Explanation: The grandmother's supportive presence helps the child feel safe and nurtured, showcasing the importance of family in overcoming fears.
Real-World Application: Children can understand the value of seeking comfort and guidance from family members when faced with daunting situations.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to new surroundings
Explanation: Throughout 'Nana in the City,' the young protagonist learns to adapt to the city's hustle and bustle, finding joy in a place that once seemed scary.
Real-World Application: This lesson is crucial for children as they learn to adapt to new conditions, whether it's moving to a new place, starting a new school, or making new friends.
Example Lesson: Seeing beauty in diversity
Explanation: The city’s diverse settings and characters illustrate the beauty and vibrancy of urban life, teaching appreciation for different cultures and environments.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and find beauty in diverse settings and communities they are part of or encounter in their lives.