One Last Thing
What’s inside...
The summary of 'One Last Thing' describes a bedtime story where a little girl named Mattie is supposed to go to bed but insists on saying 'one last thing.' This leads to a fantastical adventure around the house with her daddy in pursuit of the Great Pampoose. The story celebrates imaginative play and the battle of bedtime, brought to life by first-time collaborators.
Age
3-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the characters' actions in the story make you feel?
Why do you think the characters made the choices they did?
What is something you would have done differently if you were in the story?
Can you think of a time when you had to say goodbye like in the book? How did it make you feel?
What do you think is the most important lesson the story is trying to teach us?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts and feelings about the book to model reflective thinking.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to encourage deeper thinking.
Relate the story to real-life events or personal experiences to make the themes more relatable.
Encourage your child to draw or write about their favorite part of the story, helping them express their thoughts and feelings creatively.
Validate all feelings and thoughts shared, emphasizing that there are no right or wrong answers in discussions about literature.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of closure
Explanation: In 'One Last Thing', the characters go through journeys that teach them the importance of resolving unfinished business to find peace.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of saying goodbye, mending friendships, or making amends, which can help them manage loss and transitions in life.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The story showcases characters who step into each other’s shoes, understanding different perspectives and emotions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these principles to better relate to friends and family members, fostering stronger and more empathetic relationships.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Characters in the book overcome various challenges, showing determination and resilience.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to persevere through their personal difficulties, whether in school, sports, or relationships.
Example Lesson: The power of memories
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes how memories with loved ones can provide comfort and strength.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to cherish and recall positive memories, which can help them through times of sadness or loneliness.
Example Lesson: Appreciating the present
Explanation: As characters deal with past issues, they also learn to appreciate and live in the moment.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of enjoying the present and making the most out of every day with their peers and family.