Rectangle Time
What’s inside...
Perfect for story time, New York Times Book Review editor Pamela Paul's humorous and heartwarming story follows a self-assured cat who cherishes 'Rectangle Time,' a ritual of reading aloud with his human family. As the boy grows older and the reading sessions change, the cat struggles to adapt and reclaim his role in this evolving family tradition. This tale highlights the joys of reading, the challenges of growing up, and the importance of adapting to change, making it a delightful read for all ages.
Discussion points
Why do you think the rectangle becomes an important part of the story?
How do you feel when you spend time reading with someone else?
What does the cat learn about rectangles and time spent with others?
Can you think of a time when you learned something unexpected while doing a regular activity?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a warm and inviting tone to make the discussion feel like a shared adventure.
Relate the story to your child's experiences, like reading together or discovering new hobbies.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, validating their responses.
Highlight the importance of spending quality time together, just as the characters in the book do.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to deepen the conversation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perspective-taking
Explanation: The story is narrated from a cat’s point of view, providing a unique perspective on daily activities like reading together. This approach encourages children to consider how others, even pets, perceive situations differently.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by considering the feelings and viewpoints of their friends and family members, fostering empathy and understanding in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Value of routine and bonding
Explanation: The cat in the story looks forward to 'rectangle time' or reading time, showing how routines can create comfort and bonding opportunities in a family setting.
Real-World Application: Children can recognize the importance of spending quality time with family members through activities like reading, which not only builds bonds but also enhances their reading skills.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: As the story progresses, the cat learns to adapt when 'rectangle time' changes as the child in the family learns to read. This highlights the importance of adjusting to new situations.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to remain flexible and positive even when their usual routines or activities change, helping them to navigate life’s unpredictable moments.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for reading and books
Explanation: The cat’s enthusiasm for 'rectangle time' underlines the joys and benefits of reading, which are subtly imparted to the young readers.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to develop a lifelong love for reading, understanding that it can be a source of joy and a way to strengthen relationships.