Sebastian and the Balloon
on Goodreads (765)
What’s inside...
On a boring day, on a dull street, Sebastian sat high atop his roof--something he was never supposed to do. When he launched himself into the air in his balloon made of Grandma's afghans and patchwork quilts, his journey took on a life of its own and his boring day turned into the adventure of a lifetime. From award-winning author/illustrator Philip C. Stead, comes another timeless adventure with his trademark whimsical illustrations and an unwavering spirit. A Neal Porter Book.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Sebastian felt when he first flew away in his balloon?
What new friends did Sebastian meet, and what did they teach him?
Can you think of a time when you tried something new like Sebastian?
How did the adventure change Sebastian by the end of the story?
If you had your own balloon, where would you go and what would you take with you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Show interest and excitement about the themes of adventure and friendship in the book, reflecting on your personal experiences.
Ask open-ended questions that relate the story to the child's own life, fostering deeper connections and empathy.
After reading, engage in a creative activity like drawing a scene from the book or planning a dream adventure.
Encourage your child to describe their favorite part of the book and why it stood out to them, enhancing their analytical and emotional skills.
Discuss the importance of trying new things and making new friends, relating it to the child's experiences at school or in the neighborhood.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance and resilience
Explanation: Sebastian's journey in the balloon shows his determination and creativity in facing challenges during his adventure.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stay determined and resourceful when facing difficulties in tasks such as completing homework or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: Throughout the book, Sebastian's spirit of exploration drives him to meet new friends and discover unfamiliar places.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore and learn about the diverse world around them, be it through reading, outdoor activities, or meeting new people.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: As Sebastian travels, he makes new friends who help him along the way, emphasizing the importance of building relationships.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the significance of friendship in overcoming obstacles and enhancing life's journey.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Sebastian encounters various challenges during his voyage and must think critically to navigate them successfully.
Real-World Application: Children can apply problem-solving skills in everyday scenarios such as resolving conflicts with peers or finding solutions to puzzles and challenges in school.
Example Lesson: Joy in sharing experiences
Explanation: Sebastian’s shared adventures with his friends highlight the joys of sharing experiences and memories with others.
Real-World Application: Promotes the idea of shared activities like playing games, collaborative projects, and family outings to enrich connections and create lasting memories.