Rainbow
#2 of 12 in Under the Couch Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Spencer has to return. He knows it's dangerous and he doesn't want to go, but he needs to retrieve what he left behind. After their first trip, ten-year-old Spencer swore he'd never go back under the couch. It was too scary and he and his little brother, Justin, had been lucky to get home safely ... and without their odd nanny finding out they'd been gone. Spencer has to go back. The first trip was a fluke. Now they have to figure out how to get back to the mysterious under-the-couch world. Discovering the secrets of the antique couch changed what started as a rotten summer. On this second adventure, the brothers are transported to a place where wishes come true. But they again realize there are real dangers in this mysterious under-the-couch world. Will they be able to get back to their door and return home safely ... before the nanny notices they are gone? Rainbow is the second book in the children's fantasy series about Spencer and Justin's fun, exciting, and dangerous adventures under the couch.
Discussion points
What is your favorite color in the rainbow and why?
How do you think the rainbow made the characters feel in the story?
Can you think of a time when something as simple as a colorful rainbow brought happiness to your day?
Why do you think the author chose a rainbow to be an important part of the story?
How can we find or create our own rainbow on a day that feels gloomy?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use enthusiastic and expressive tones when discussing the colors and scenarios in the book to make the conversation lively and engaging.
Encourage your child to draw or paint their own rainbow, discussing each color they use and why they chose it, linking back to their favorite part of the story.
Relate the themes of the book to real-life situations, asking your child how they might react or feel, which helps in understanding their emotions and empathy.
Share your own feelings and stories about rainbows or colorful moments to create a bonding experience and show that their thoughts and opinions are valued.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: In 'Rainbow,' Susan Lintonsmith portrays a vibrant world where characters of various colors and backgrounds come together to create a beautiful rainbow, symbolizing unity and diversity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and celebrate the differences among their peers. This can foster inclusivity and respect in social interactions at school or in their community.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: The story shows how each color band of the rainbow works in harmony with the others to form a complete rainbow, teaching the importance of collaborating and supporting each other.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by engaging in group activities where cooperation is key, such as sports or group projects, learning to value each member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Expression
Explanation: The characters in the book use their unique colors to express themselves and create art, which encourages self-expression and the exploration of artistic talents.
Real-World Application: Children are motivated to explore various forms of creative expression like drawing, painting, or storytelling, helping them to communicate their feelings and ideas.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters face challenges in bringing all the colors together, but they persist until they succeed, highlighting the value of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This lesson inspires children to keep trying in the face of difficulties, whether it's learning a new skill, solving a tough puzzle, or making new friends.
Example Lesson: Joy in Achievements
Explanation: At the end of the story, all the characters celebrate the creation of the rainbow, showing that achieving goals brings happiness and satisfaction.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate their achievements and those of others, encouraging positive reinforcement and self-esteem.