Our Little Inventor
What’s inside...
A gorgeous and inspiring picture book about a young girl, Nell, who invents a machine to fix the pollution that is choking the city. 'My invention is ready!' exclaimed Nell. 'I must show it to the people in the Big City. Uncle says he can take me most of the way.' 'It won't work,' scoffed Little Brother. Little Nell has worked hard to make an invention that will help clean up the pollution in the Big City. But she soon discovers that it can be hard for a girl to get the attention of the people in charge. A wonderful picture book about a girl with a big idea and a determined spirit, and who just needs a little help to make the world a better place for everyone.
Discussion points
What do you think Nell’s biggest challenge was and how did she overcome it?
If you were an inventor like Nell, what would you create to help the environment?
How do the illustrations make you feel about the story and Nell’s journey?
What qualities do you admire most in Nell and why?
How do you think the world changed after Nell shared her invention?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions that allow children to express their thoughts and connect the story to their own experiences.
Encourage children to describe and interpret the illustrations, fostering a deeper understanding and engagement with the story.
Discuss the resilience and creativity demonstrated by Nell, linking these qualities to real-life scenarios your child may encounter.
Highlight Nell’s determination and how positive impacts can stem from perseverance and innovative thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of challenges
Explanation: The protagonist of 'Our Little Inventor', Nell, faces numerous obstacles as she tries to save her city with her invention. Despite skepticism and mockery, she persists and remains committed to her goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by continuing to work towards their own goals, whether it's completing a difficult school project or learning a new skill, even when it gets challenging.
Example Lesson: Creativity and innovation
Explanation: Nell uses her creativity to design a special device to combat pollution. Her inventive spirit is a central theme of the story.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think outside the box and use their imagination to solve problems, which can be applied in creative group projects or in finding new ways to organize their tasks.
Example Lesson: Importance of caring for the environment
Explanation: The book highlights environmental issues through Nell’s journey to save her city from air pollution, making children aware of environmental conservation.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of environmental stewardship and can participate in activities like recycling programs or local clean-up days to contribute positively to their community.
Example Lesson: Self-belief and confidence
Explanation: Despite others not believing in her, Nell maintains confidence in her abilities and her invention, demonstrating self-belief.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to have confidence in their abilities and to trust in their own ideas and decisions, important for their personal development and when interacting with peers.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Nell shows empathy by addressing a problem that affects others in her city, not just herself.
Real-World Application: This storyline can help children understand the importance of considering other people's situations and feelings, promoting empathy in interactions at school or in their community.