Nuts
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
A squeaking sound outside her bedroom leads eleven-year-old Nell and her younger brothers to save and care for two wild squirrels that appear to be orphaned. But then Nell learns that she shouldn't try to do this on her own. Still, if Nell has the time and devotion, why shouldn't she raise the squirrels? She loves them, and they need her-don't they? Nell is willing to do anything to keep her new pets safe, even if it involves telling a few lies. The book also briefly discusses the characteristics of thirty-three different kinds of nuts, the plants on which they grow, and their various uses.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
63 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the squirrel in the story was collecting so many nuts?
What kinds of feelings did the animals in the book show when they were sharing the nuts?
How did the animals work together and what can we learn from them?
What would you do if you were one of the animals in the story?
Can you think of a time when you shared something important with someone else, just like in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the importance of sharing by relating it to their own experiences with friends or siblings.
Discuss the different emotions displayed by the characters in the book and ask your child how they might feel in similar situations.
Highlight the teamwork shown by the animals and relate it to instances where working together is beneficial in real life.
Use the illustrations in the book to help your child understand the story and the emotions of the characters better.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of sharing
Explanation: In 'Nuts', the characters learn the value of sharing their resources, helping each other ensure everyone has enough.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by sharing their toys or snacks with friends, fostering a sense of cooperation and generosity.
Example Lesson: Understanding diversity
Explanation: The book showcases a variety of nut characters, each with unique traits and perspectives, encouraging acceptance and understanding of differences.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children appreciate diverse cultures and personalities in their school or community, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout 'Nuts', the characters face various challenges that they overcome by thinking critically and working together, highlighting the importance of problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Children can use these skills to navigate obstacles in their own lives, whether in academic settings or in social scenarios, enhancing their ability to think critically.
Example Lesson: The value of persistence
Explanation: The nut characters encounter setbacks but learn to persevere and not give up easily, reinforcing the lesson of persistence.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of continuing to try in the face of difficulties, whether it be in learning new skills or building relationships.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The story emphasizes the natural origin of the nuts and their role in the ecosystem, educating children on environmental stewardship.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to be more conscious of their environment, perhaps engaging in recycling or learning more about how plants and animals contribute to the health of the planet.