Outside the Box
What’s inside...
This laugh-out-loud poetry collaboration from a New York Times and Publishers Weekly bestselling author and a Caldecott Honor illustrator is anything but ordinary. Dive in to Karma Wilson's latest collection of more than 100 poems: some humorous, some poignant, and all of them Outside the Box. Illustrated by Caldecott Honoree Diane Goode, Outside the Box has something for everyone. Appealing to kids and parents alike, poems such as Sick Day, My Pet Robot, Balloonaphobia, and Aliens Under My Bed are sure to delight and entertain.
Age
7-10
Length
176 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the adventure outside the box, and why?
How do you think the characters felt when they discovered something new?
What would you do if you found a similar box? Can you imagine what your adventure would look like?
How did the characters work together to solve problems? Can you think of a time when you worked with someone to solve a problem?
What new ideas did the book give you about playing or thinking creatively?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, relating the scenarios to their own experiences and emotions.
Ask your child to draw or build their version of 'Outside the Box' using art supplies or building blocks. This helps them connect more deeply with the themes of creativity and exploration.
Use expressions and animated voices to mimic the characters when discussing the story, making the reading experience more lively and engaging.
After reading, take a walk or have a play session where you both pretend to discover new, imaginary worlds. This outdoor or play activity can help bring the themes of the book to life.
Encourage your child to ask questions too and think about what they might have done differently than the characters in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and Innovation
Explanation: The narrative encourages children to think unconventionally and use their imagination to solve problems.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these skills in school projects or daily challenges, fostering a mindset that values creative solutions.
Example Lesson: Importance of Curiosity
Explanation: Characters in the book show a deep interest in exploring the world around them, promoting the value of asking questions and seeking new experiences.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to explore new hobbies, ask more questions in class, or delve into books that expand their knowledge and horizons.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: As the characters face challenges, their resilience and refusal to give up teaches the importance of persevering despite difficulties.
Real-World Application: This lesson is vital for children as they encounter academic or personal challenges, encouraging them to persist and not be discouraged by setbacks.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Interactions between diverse characters promote empathy, showing the importance of understanding different perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate diversity and practice empathy in their interactions with peers, fostering a more inclusive environment.