Pluto Gets the Call
#7 of 7 in Our Universe Series
What’s inside...
Hot diggity dog! Meet Pluto! The runt of a litter of eight planets. Pluto may not be the biggest or fastest planet to revolve around the Sun, but it has a unique story to tell. From the tale of how it was found by humans to its naming as a dwarf planet, it’s Pluto’s turn to take the spotlight and properly re-introduce itself. With characteristic humor and charm, Stacy McAnulty channels the voice of Pluto in this next celestial 'autobiography' in the Our Universe series. Rich with kid-friendly facts and beautifully brought to life by Stevie Lewis, this is an equally charming and irresistible companion to Earth! My First 4.54 Billion Years and Sun! One in a Billion.
Discussion points
How do you think Pluto felt when it got the call about not being a planet anymore?
What are some ways Pluto tried to show it's still special even if it's not a planet?
Can you think of a time when you felt left out, like Pluto? What did you do?
Why do you think the other planets still wanted to be friends with Pluto?
What does this story teach us about friendship and acceptance?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story by relating to Pluto’s experiences. Empathize with Pluto's situation to foster emotional understanding.
Discuss the concept of change and how sometimes, changes might initially seem upsetting but can lead to new opportunities or learning experiences.
Highlight the theme of friendship and acceptance. Ask your child how they can be a good friend like the planets are to Pluto.
Use the book’s illustrations to engage younger children, asking them to describe different characters or scenes, thus improving their observation and vocabulary skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of disappointment
Explanation: Pluto feels upset after being demoted from planet status but learns to accept and adapt to his new classification.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to handle setbacks and changes in life, understanding that self-worth is not tied to external labels or statuses.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning
Explanation: Through his journey across the solar system, Pluto actively seeks to learn more about the other planets and himself.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be curious and pursue knowledge about the world around them, fostering a love of learning.
Example Lesson: Friendship and acceptance
Explanation: Despite his change in status, the other celestial bodies still treat Pluto with kindness and respect, showing that true friends accept you as you are.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of friendship, inclusivity, and accepting others for who they are, not what they represent.