There
on Goodreads (273)
What’s inside...
Here, a young girl asks questions about growing up as she walks over rolling hills, climbs a ladder up to the stars, and meets a dragon. Fitzpatrick's landscapes and her briefest of text speak to the power of the imagination. When will I get There? How will I know? A little girl ponders what the future holds, steadfast in her determination to find out for herself. Marie-Louise Fitzpatrick's gorgeous landscapes and the briefest of text speak to the power of imagination. Readers of all ages will find reassurance in this simple, beautiful book of ruminations about a lifelong journey toward tomorrow.
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Child
Discussion points
What do you think the character 'There' feels on their journey? Can you describe any emotions they might be experiencing?
How does the changing scenery in the book make you feel? Do you have a favorite part of the journey?
If you were going on a journey like 'There', what would you take with you and why?
What do you think 'There' is like? Can you imagine what adventures might await there?
How do you think the story would change if 'There' was a place you knew?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the journey to life; change your tone to match the mood of different scenes.
Pause at key moments to allow your child to absorb the imagery and reflect on the character's feelings.
Encourage your child to draw or describe what they imagine 'There' looks like based on the descriptions in the book.
Link parts of the character’s journey to real-life experiences your child might relate to, enhancing personal connection to the story.
At the end of the book, ask your child to summarize the story in their own words to gauge understanding and encourage active recall.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: The protagonist in 'There' embarks on a journey that symbolizes the transition from childhood to adulthood, illustrating the importance of embracing change.
Real-World Application: Children learn to adapt to new environments and situations, such as starting a new school or moving to a new city.
Example Lesson: Self-Discovery
Explanation: As the character travels, they encounter various challenges that help them discover their strengths and weaknesses, promoting self-awareness.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by exploring new interests or activities, helping them understand themselves better as they grow.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The journey in the book is fraught with obstacles, yet the protagonist continues forward, teaching the value of perseverance when facing difficulties.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to not give up easily, whether it be in completing homework, learning a new skill, or dealing with personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Adventure
Explanation: The book's narrative encourages exploring the unknown, showing how curiosity can lead to meaningful experiences.
Real-World Application: Children are motivated to ask questions and explore the world around them, leading to a deeper understanding and appreciation of their surroundings.