Sidewalk Circus
What’s inside...
This delightful book will fascinate children and help them to see their world with new eyes. It features the Garibaldi Circus, filled with an incredible assemblage of tightrope walkers, strong men, sword swallowers, and clowns. The book, created by the minds behind WESLANDIA, is a wordless picture book that showcases the transformative power of imagination, encouraging readers to sharpen their vision and observe closely as a spectacular show unfolds in front of them.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-9
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think each person in the illustrations is feeling? Why?
How do the actions of the characters in the circus reflect what we see every day?
Can you create a story for one of the background characters? What do you think their day is like?
What are some ways the illustrations tell a story without using words?
If you were part of this sidewalk circus, what would you like to perform and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe what’s happening in the illustrations, building their observation and storytelling skills.
Ask your child how the story would change if it had words, promoting critical thinking about visual storytelling.
Discuss the different emotions displayed through the characters’ actions in the book, enhancing empathy and emotional understanding.
Create a small sidewalk circus at home with your child, using everyday objects as props to bring the story to life and make it a fun, interactive experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Observation Skills
Explanation: Sidewalk Circus encourages children to pay close attention to the world around them, spotlighting the unnoticed but intricate performances of everyday life.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this skill by observing their surroundings more keenly, whether at school, in a park, or during a car ride, fostering a deeper appreciation and curiosity for their environment.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The book showcases how ordinary scenes on a city street can transform into a vibrant circus through the lens of imagination.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to use their creativity to reinterpret mundane scenarios in playful and inventive ways, enhancing problem-solving skills and artistic expression.
Example Lesson: Patience
Explanation: By observing the slow reveal of the circus through the illustrations, children learn the value of patience and attentiveness.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that sometimes, waiting and watching carefully can lead to rewarding experiences, a skill useful in academic settings and personal relationships.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Community
Explanation: The diverse array of characters and activities depicted celebrates the vibrancy and dynamism of urban life, fostering a sense of community.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value the roles and contributions of different people in their community, promoting respect and inclusivity.