Nerdy Birdy
#1 of 2 in Nerdy Birdy Series
What’s inside...
Nerdy Birdy likes reading, video games, and reading about video games, which immediately disqualifies him for membership in the cool crowd. One thing is clear: being a nerdy birdy is a lonely lifestyle. When he's at his lowest point, Nerdy Birdy meets a flock just like him. He has friends and discovers that there are far more nerdy birdies than cool birdies in the sky. Everything is looking up until a new bird moves into the neighbourhood. She looks lonely. What's a nerdy birdy to do?
Character compass
Nerdy Birdy
Eagle
Discussion points
What makes Nerdy Birdy different from the other birds, and how does he feel about it?
Can you think of a time when you felt different from others? How did that make you feel?
Nerdy Birdy makes some new friends who are also 'nerdy'. What are some qualities of a good friend that the book shows?
How do the birds learn to appreciate their differences by the end of the story?
What have you learned from Nerdy Birdy about treating people who are different from you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use empathetic listening, encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story and its characters.
Relate personal experiences or similar situations to the scenarios in the book to make the conversation more relatable.
Highlight the themes of friendship and acceptance, discussing how embracing differences can lead to enriching relationships.
Ask your child to imagine other adventures or stories for Nerdy Birdy and his friends, fostering creativity and deeper understanding of the characters.
Discuss the importance of inclusivity and kindness, using examples from the book to point out how the characters evolve through the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of inclusivity and acceptance
Explanation: Nerdy Birdy teaches young readers about embracing differences and the value of being inclusive. The story shows how Nerdy Birdy is different from other birds but finds friends who accept him as he is.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the diverse qualities in their peers and create inclusive environments in their classrooms and playgrounds.
Example Lesson: Understanding and celebrating individuality
Explanation: The book highlights that everyone has unique traits and that these differences make us special. Nerdy Birdy has different interests than the other birds, which is celebrated in the story.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be proud of their own interests and qualities, fostering self-confidence and self-expression in real-life situations.
Example Lesson: The value of true friendship
Explanation: Nerdy Birdy’s story unfolds to show that true friends appreciate you for who you are, not for who they want you to be. This is shown through Nerdy Birdy's interactions with his new friends who share his interests.
Real-World Application: Children are prompted to seek out and cherish friendships that are based on mutual respect and common interests, which can lead to more fulfilling and supportive relationships.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The narrative encourages readers to empathize with characters who feel left out or different. By identifying with Nerdy Birdy, readers learn the importance of understanding others' feelings.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to practice empathy in their daily interactions, leading to more compassionate relationships and a deeper understanding of those around them.