The Squiggle
What’s inside...
As she walks to the park with her school class, a young girl finds a piece of string which her imagination turns into a dragon's tail, an acrobat, fireworks, a storm cloud, and more. What magic can be found in a piece of string? The magic of a million incarnations--when the string is found by an imaginative little girl who spies it on the sidewalk. Slither, slish--it could be the dance of a scaly dragon. Or, push-a-pat--the top of the Great Wall of China. Unique illustrations, inspired by Asian brush-stroke paintings, transform the simple thread into fireworks, thunderclouds, and even the moon.
Age
5-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Child (Unnamed)
Discussion points
What did you think the squiggle was going to become when you first saw it?
How do you think the squiggle felt when it was moving around the pages?
Can you think of a time when you created something from your imagination like the child in the story?
What other shapes or things could the squiggle turn into if you were drawing it?
How did the story make you feel when the squiggle transformed into different objects?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child to predict what the book might be about just by looking at the cover and title.
While reading, pause to let your child guess what the squiggle will transform into next, enhancing their anticipation and engagement.
Encourage your child to draw their version of the squiggle after reading. Discuss the shapes they create and what inspired their choices.
Link the transformations of the squiggle to emotions: Ask your child how each shape could represent different feelings.
After reading, connect the story with real-life creativity by organizing a small art project where your child can create shapes from squiggles.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The story showcases the journey of a squiggle that transforms itself into various objects, encouraging children to think creatively and see the potential in simple things.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by using their imagination to repurpose everyday objects during play, fostering creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Adaptability and Flexibility
Explanation: As the squiggle changes shapes, it teaches the importance of being adaptable and flexible in different situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that being open to change and adjusting accordingly is a valuable skill in everyday activities and interactions.
Example Lesson: Self-Expression
Explanation: The squiggle's transformations are a form of self-expression, illustrating the joy and uniqueness found in expressing oneself.
Real-World Application: Children learn to express their thoughts and feelings through art, play, and conversation, which is essential for emotional development and personal identity.
Example Lesson: Observation Skills
Explanation: The story encourages children to look closely at simple lines and shapes, seeing beyond the obvious.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop keen observation skills that enhance their learning and attention to detail in school tasks and daily life.