The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore
What’s inside...
Morris Lessmore loved words, stories, and books. However, everything in his life is scattered to the winds due to unforeseen events. Despite the chaos, the power of storytelling ultimately prevails. The narrative served as the inspiration for an Academy Award-winning film.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
52 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think books made Mr. Morris Lessmore feel when he was sad?
What do you believe the flying books represent in Morris's life?
Can you imagine a world where books are alive? What would your favorite book do?
Why do you think it's important to care for and share our books with others?
How did the story change Morris's life and how do you think stories affect our lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Allow room for imagination by asking your child to describe their own version of a 'flying book'.
Encourage empathy by discussing how Morris felt at different points in the book and comparing those feelings to personal experiences.
Highlight the transformative power of storytelling by asking your child how different stories have impacted them or made them feel.
Discuss the theme of rejuvenation and renewal by talking about how each book Morris wrote brought something new.
Connect the story to the real world by talking about the importance of libraries and how they keep stories alive for everyone.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The power of storytelling
Explanation: The protagonist, Mr. Morris Lessmore, uses books to navigate his life’s ups and downs, depicting how stories can provide comfort and guidance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to use books as a source of comfort during challenging times and a way to understand complex emotions and situations.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Despite losing everything in a storm, Morris rebuilds his life around the joy of books, showing how one can find strength and rebuild after loss.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of perseverance and finding solace in passions when facing difficult circumstances.
Example Lesson: The impact of sharing knowledge
Explanation: Morris not only cherishes books but also shares them with others, highlighting the importance of spreading knowledge and joy.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of sharing knowledge with peers to foster a more inclusive and supportive community.
Example Lesson: The cycle of life
Explanation: As Morris ages and eventually leaves his books behind for another, it reflects the cycle of life and the lasting impact one's life can have.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand concepts of legacy and lifecycle in a tangible way, promoting discussions about the influences each person can leave behind.
Example Lesson: Revitalization through passion
Explanation: The colorful depiction of books bringing life back to the grayscale world Morris initially finds himself in illustrates how pursuing passions can revitalize one’s life.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to engage deeply with their interests, which can add vibrancy and purpose to their daily lives.