Not A Book About Bunnies
What’s inside...
Debut author Amanda Henke introduces her first book, Not a Book About Bunnies, which highlights the often overlooked and misunderstood porcupine. The story humorously emphasizes the desire for the porcupine to have its own book, free from the common bunny-themed tales. As the porcupine strives for the reader's attention, a little bunny keeps trying to steal the spotlight, leading to an unexpected and charming friendship between the two very different forest creatures. With its quirky humor and self-aware narrative, this picture book appeals to animal lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a good laugh, promising a story that focuses entirely on porcupines.
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think is the main message of 'Not A Book About Bunnies'? Why do you think the author chose this title?
How did the characters in the story solve their problems? Can you think of a time when you solved a problem in a similar way?
How do the different characters in the book feel throughout the story? What makes you think that?
What was your favorite part of the book, and why?
If you could add another character to the story, who would it be and what would they do?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story. Validate their feelings and perspectives to make them feel heard.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to deepen their understanding and connection to the story.
Relate the story to your child’s personal experiences. This can help them relate to the characters and apply the morals in their own life.
Use expressive read-aloud techniques, such as varying your tone or using different voices for different characters, to make the story more engaging and entertaining.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a scene from the book or write a short story or poem inspired by it, to enhance their creative expression.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: Through its narrative, 'Not A Book About Bunnies' showcases a range of characters that differ in species, promoting inclusivity and acceptance of differences.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of embracing and celebrating diversity in their own communities, fostering an environment of inclusion and respect for others.
Example Lesson: Value of Creativity
Explanation: The story encourages thinking outside the box by introducing unexpected elements and plot twists, showing that creativity can lead to unique and exciting outcomes.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that applying creativity can transform ordinary situations into extraordinary ones, enhancing problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios.
Example Lesson: Importance of Curiosity
Explanation: Characters in the book often embark on quests seeking knowledge, demonstrating the power and enjoyment of staying curious.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and explore the world around them, fostering a love for learning and discovery in everyday life.
Example Lesson: Developing Friendship
Explanation: Interactions among different characters in the book reveal the significance of forming and nurturing friendships.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of building and maintaining relationships, helping them cultivate social skills crucial for their personal development.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Challenges
Explanation: The book’s characters face various challenges that they overcome through teamwork and persistence, illustrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Instills a mindset in children that obstacles can be overcome with determination and cooperation, preparing them for navigating difficulties in life.