Over, Bear! Under, Where?
What’s inside...
A hilariously clever story of wordplay and unexpected friendship, perfect for fans of 7 Ate 9 and Eats, Shoots, and Leaves. Over and Under are two friends enjoying a day at the park. They swing and seesaw, meet a hot-dog dog, and encounter a bear, leading to hilarious misunderstandings. Through pun-filled antics, they discover the true meaning of friendship. Acclaimed by Jane Yolen, BCCB, and Publishers Weekly for its humor and engaging wordplay, it's a delightful read for all ages.
Discussion points
What do you think is happening when the characters say 'Over, Bear!' and 'Under, Where?'
How do the different animals in the book help each other? Can you think of a time when you helped someone or someone helped you?
Why do you think the author chose a bear and other animals for this story? How would the story change if different animals were used?
What are some of the important lessons you learned from the adventures of the bear?
How would you feel if you were in a similar situation as Bear? What would you have done differently?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, relating to the characters and situations presented.
Ask them to predict what might happen next at key points in the story to keep them engaged and thinking critically.
Help them connect the story's themes with their own experiences by sharing similar situations from your life or prompting them to recall their own.
Discuss the moral and lessons of the story, and how they can apply these lessons in their daily life to foster a deeper understanding and personal growth.
Use expressive reading and role-playing different characters' voices to make the reading session more entertaining and immersive.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Spatial Awareness
Explanation: Through playful interactions between characters Over and Under, children grasp the concepts of over, under, and between.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply these directional cues during play, understanding how to navigate spaces and objects around them.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The characters face challenges that require them to think critically and solve problems together.
Real-World Application: Children learn to approach their own obstacles methodically, enhancing their ability to think critically and collaboratively in group tasks or games.
Example Lesson: Friendship and Cooperation
Explanation: Over and Under demonstrate the importance of working together to achieve common goals, showing how cooperation leads to success.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to participate in teamwork, promote harmonious interactions, and support peers both in school and in play.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: The inventive scenarios presented in the book spur imagination, as characters use creative solutions to navigate their world.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to use their imagination in play, crafts, and problem solving, applying creative thinking to various aspects of their daily lives and learning.