The Worm and the Bird
on Goodreads (1,018)
What’s inside...
A beautifully illustrated story about a worm and a bird, each longing for something more from life. The worm yearns for air and space, while the bird searches for the security of the ground. Their stories intertwine in a tale about searching for one's place in the world. Nominated for the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal and shortlisted for the British Book Design and Production Awards 2018, this new picture book from the bestselling author of The Fox and the Star illustrates the dreams of Worm who lives deep below the earth yearning for more space, and Bird who waits above through various weathers, hoping for something more. Together, their journeys reflect the beauty and hope found in the smallest moments and the continual search for one's place in the world.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-6
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the worm dreams about while it's underground?
How do you think the bird feels when it can't find the worm?
What does the story teach us about patience and the importance of waiting?
Why is it important for the worm and the bird to understand each other's perspectives?
How can we apply the lessons from the worm and the bird to our everyday life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the shoes of both the worm and the bird, discussing how each character might feel at different points in the story.
Ask your child to draw a scene from the book and describe what’s happening. This engages their creative skills and helps them think about the story’s themes.
Use the story as an opportunity to discuss the value of waiting and how sometimes being patient can lead to good outcomes.
Promote empathy by discussing the misunderstandings between the worm and the bird, and how understanding and communication can resolve conflicts.
Reiterate the story's themes after reading by connecting them to real-life situations your child may encounter.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Patience and Timing
Explanation: The story illustrates how the worm takes its time moving through the soil, demonstrating the importance of patience and allowing things to unfold in their own time.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to approach tasks and challenges slowly and thoughtfully, understanding that rushing might not always lead to the best outcomes.
Example Lesson: Appreciating the Present
Explanation: The bird is always looking for more, illustrating a lack of contentment with the current moment. This serves as a reminder of the beauty and importance of living in the present.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to cherish the here and now, rather than constantly seeking something else, fostering gratitude for what they currently have.
Example Lesson: Understanding Different Perspectives
Explanation: The worm and the bird live in the same environment but experience it differently. This highlights the diversity of experiences and perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children are reminded to consider and respect different viewpoints and experiences, promoting empathy and social awareness.
Example Lesson: The Inevitability of Change
Explanation: The story subtly addresses changes that come with time, showing how the worm and bird adapt to their circumstances.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to adapt to changes and understand that change is a natural part of life.