Saturday
What’s inside...
In this warm and tender story by the Caldecott Honor-winning creator of Thank You, Omu!, join a mother and daughter on an up-and-down journey that reminds them of what’s best about Saturdays: precious time together. Today would be special. Today would be splendid. It was Saturday! But sometimes, the best plans don’t work out exactly the way you expect. In this heartfelt and universal story, a mother and daughter look forward to their special Saturday routine together every single week. But this Saturday, one thing after another goes wrong–ruining storytime, salon time, picnic time, and the puppet show they’d been looking forward to going to all week. Mom is nearing a meltdown…until her loving daughter reminds her that being together is the most important thing of all. Author-artist Oge Mora’s highly anticipated follow up to Caldecott Honor Thank You, Omu! features the same magnificently radiant artwork and celebration of sharing so beloved in her debut picture book.
Age
3-6
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Henry Perowne
Theo Perowne
Daisy Perowne
Rosalind Perowne
Baxter
Discussion points
How did Ava and her mother handle the challenges they faced during their Saturday adventures? What can we learn from their reactions?
What are some things that Ava and her mom were looking forward to doing on Saturday? Why do you think these activities were special to them?
How did the story show the importance of spending time with family? Can you think of a favorite family day that we have shared together?
How did the colors and illustrations make you feel while reading the story? What mood do you think the artist wanted to convey?
What does the story of 'Saturday' teach us about the value of resilience and making the best out of an unexpected situation?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the questions, reference specific parts of the book where Ava and her mother interact with each other. This encourages children to think critically about characters' emotions and responses.
Encourage children to draw parallels between their own experiences and those of Ava and her mother, fostering a deeper connection to the story.
Use expressive reading techniques when sharing the book, such as changing your tone of voice to match the emotions in the story. This makes the reading experience more immersive and engaging for the child.
After discussing the book, engage in an activity similar to what Ava and her mom enjoyed, like visiting a park or creating art together. This helps children apply themes from the book to real life.
Praise children for their insights and responses during the discussion. Positive reinforcement encourages them to share their thoughts and feelings more openly.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of disappointment
Explanation: In 'Saturday', despite the series of setbacks that Ava and her mother experience, they maintain a positive attitude and find joy in each other's company.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain optimistic and find happiness in simple moments, even when things do not go as planned.
Example Lesson: The importance of quality family time
Explanation: The story emphasizes spending a special day together, showing the joy and bonding between Ava and her mother during their weekly Saturday routine.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to treasure and look forward to family activities, enhancing familial relationships and creating cherished memories.
Example Lesson: Flexibility and adaptability
Explanation: Ava and her mother's plans are repeatedly thwarted, but they adapt to the circumstances and find alternative ways to enjoy their day.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of being flexible and adapting to changes, a skill that is useful in various life situations.
Example Lesson: Appreciating the present moment
Explanation: Despite the initial plans failing, the mother and daughter focus on enjoying the present moment together.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children learn to focus on the now and appreciate the current joys of life, rather than dwelling on what could have been.