Sidewalk Flowers
What’s inside...
In this wordless picture book, a little girl collects wildflowers while her distracted father pays her little attention. Each flower becomes a gift, and whether the gift is noticed or ignored, both giver and recipient are transformed by their encounter. 'Written' by award-winning poet JonArno Lawson and brought to life by illustrator Sydney Smith, Sidewalk Flowers is an ode to the importance of small things, small people, and small gestures. Winner of the Governor General's Literary Award for Children's Illustrated Book.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the girl felt when she was giving away the flowers?
What changes did you notice in the people and places as the girl handed out flowers?
Why do you think the girl decided to share flowers with others?
What does the color in the illustrations tell us about how the girl is feeling?
Can you think of a time when you shared something special with someone else?
Tip: Role play these questions
While reading, point to the illustrations of the girl and the flowers, asking your child about colors and details they notice.
Encourage your child to explain why sharing might make someone happy, drawing parallels to their personal experiences.
Discuss the different characters' reactions in the book to understand perspectives and empathy.
After reading, take a walk outside and create a game of spotting small, beautiful things, just like in the book.
Relate the book's message to real-life situations where your child can make a difference by small acts of kindness.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of small acts of kindness.
Explanation: In 'Sidewalk Flowers', the young protagonist picks wildflowers while walking with her dad and gives them to people and animals she encounters, spreading joy.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to notice and act on opportunities to make others happy with simple gestures, like sharing a toy or helping a friend.
Example Lesson: Observing the world around you.
Explanation: Throughout the book, the child is attentive to her surroundings, spotting flowers in unlikely places amidst the urban landscape.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be observant and appreciate the natural beauty around them, even in unexpected places.
Example Lesson: The impact of non-verbal communication.
Explanation: The story is told through illustrations without text, emphasizing the power of visual storytelling and the interpretation of non-verbal cues.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to understand and express themselves through facial expressions and body language, enhancing empathetic skills.
Example Lesson: Sharing with and caring for others.
Explanation: The girl’s actions in giving flowers to others, including a dead bird, show a compassionate attitude towards all living beings.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of compassion and generosity, encouraging them to share and care for others in their community.