Pop's Perfect Present
What’s inside...
A heartwarming and playful celebration of a little girl's love for her father as she tries to give him the best day ever. The best dad ever deserves the best day ever. When a young girl tries to find the perfect present for her pop, her best intentions go awry. The fishing trip is a flop, baseball is a bust, and making chili is a mistake. Nothing works out the way she wants it to. But it turns out, the best gift of all could be a day spent together. With a classic knack for rhythm and rhyme and a great sense of humor, Pop’s Perfect Present is the answer to any gift-giving dilemma for dads.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Pop wanted to find the perfect present?
How did Pop feel when challenges arose during his search for the gift?
What does this story teach us about the importance of effort versus the outcome?
Can you think of a time when you worked hard to do something special for someone else?
What would you have done differently if you were in Pop's place?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story by asking them open-ended questions that relate to both the narrative and their personal experiences. Validate their feelings and viewpoints to create a safe space for discussion. Use the themes of the book, such as determination and the value of effort, to connect with real-life examples from the child’s own experiences. Highlight the moral and ask what lessons they might apply in their own life. Sharing your own stories in a similar context can also make the conversation more relatable and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of thoughtfulness
Explanation: In 'Pop's Perfect Present', the main character, Pop, searches for the perfect gift for his best friend. He chooses based on what his friend truly loves, rather than what is easiest or most convenient to obtain.
Real-World Application: Children learn to consider others' feelings and preferences, encouraging them to be more thoughtful and considerate in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Creativity and problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the story, Pop encounters various obstacles but uses his creativity to overcome them. This shows that sometimes the first solution isn’t always the best, and thinking creatively can lead to better outcomes.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think outside the box and use their imagination to solve problems they encounter in school or during play.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Despite facing challenges in finding the perfect gift, Pop does not give up. His dedication eventually leads to a successful outcome, demonstrating the value of persistence.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of perseverance in achieving goals, whether it's completing a difficult school project or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: Pop’s happiness does not come from receiving, but from finding a gift that brings joy to his friend. This highlights the intrinsic rewards of giving.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand that personal satisfaction often comes from making others happy, fostering a generous spirit.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: The entire journey Pop undertakes is for the sake of his friend’s happiness, underscoring the lengths one can go to for a friend.
Real-World Application: Emphasizes to children the importance of maintaining and cherishing friendships, teaching them to value and nurture relationships.