The Lost Thing
on Goodreads (5,818)
What’s inside...
A kid finds a lost 'thing' on the beach while scavenging for his bottle-top collection. The thing is a large, freakish creature, yet no one else notices it as it doesn't fit into their day-to-day reality. The kid decides to take on the responsibility of finding where the lost thing belongs. The Lost Thing is a gently humorous tale filled with the typical thoughts of an observant and caring young person, complemented by surreal and thought-provoking illustrations. This story marks the first book that Shaun Tan both wrote and illustrated, showcasing his unique artistic style and narrative that has won him numerous awards, including the Crichton Award for Book Illustration and the Australian National Science Fiction Best Artist Award.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the 'Lost Thing' represents in the story? How did it make you feel?
Why do you think no one else seemed to notice the 'Lost Thing'? What does this tell us about how people see the world?
How did the main character's actions help the 'Lost Thing'? What would you have done if you were in his place?
What are some ways we can help others who feel lost or out of place?
What do you think happens to the 'Lost Thing' after the story ends?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the deeper meanings behind the 'Lost Thing'. Ask open-ended questions that provoke empathy and understanding. Share personal anecdotes related to the themes of belonging and noticing the unnoticed to make the discussion relatable and engaging. Recognize any feelings or thoughts your child expresses during the discussion, affirming their capacity to analyze and empathize.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy and compassion
Explanation: In 'The Lost Thing', the protagonist helps a strange creature find its place in the world, showcasing acts of kindness and understanding towards someone who is different.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of showing kindness to those who may not fit in, helping them develop social inclusivity in their daily interactions at school or in playgrounds.
Example Lesson: The power of curiosity and discovery
Explanation: The story follows the journey driven by the boy’s curiosity about the lost thing and his quest to find out where it belongs, demonstrating the importance of questioning and exploring the unknown.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be inquisitive about their surroundings and to seek knowledge, fostering a lifelong love for learning and exploration.
Example Lesson: The significance of belonging and acceptance
Explanation: As the protagonist searches for a home for the lost thing, the narrative highlights the universal need for acceptance and finding one’s place in society.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the importance of community and supports them in embracing diversity in their own societies.
Example Lesson: Challenging conformity
Explanation: The book portrays a monotonous, conformist society and the joy of encountering something different, urging readers to appreciate and preserve uniqueness.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to value individuality and to bravely express their unique traits and ideas in everyday life.