Thingamabob
on Goodreads (152)
What’s inside...
In the beginning, the universe was one great big thing. Then that thing exploded into gobs and gobs of thingamabobs. All of the thingamabobs had a purpose, except for one small, shapeless thingamabob. It wasn't this or that, and it wasn't here or there. No one knew what its purpose was. But everything changes for Thingamabob when it makes a friend in the park. Through this friendship, Thingamabob realizes that if it isn't one thing, it can be everything. This sweet and empowering picture book about self-discovery encourages readers to embrace their own uniqueness and potential.
Age
3-7
Length
44 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Elephant
Discussion points
What do you think a Thingamabob might look like? Can you draw your version of it?
How do you think the Thingamabob feels when it arrives in a new place? Have you ever felt the same way?
What would you do if you found a Thingamabob? How would you help it?
What do you think is the most important message the book is trying to tell us?
If the Thingamabob could talk, what do you think it would say?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voices for different characters to make the story more vivid and engage your child’s imagination.
Encourage your child to imagine and describe settings from the book, enhancing their creative thinking.
Discuss the feelings of the Thingamabob and relate them to personal experiences your child might have had to foster empathy.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at various points in the story to improve their analytical thinking skills.
After reading, connect the story’s themes to real-world scenarios to help your child apply the book's lessons in daily life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of creativity
Explanation: Through the imaginative scenarios presented in 'undefined', children see how thinking outside the box helps solve problems.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their imagination in problem-solving and to view challenges as opportunities for creative thinking.
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: Characters in 'undefined' face challenges but don’t give up, showing the rewards of persistence.
Real-World Application: Children learn to keep trying even when tasks are difficult, fostering resilience and determination in their daily activities.
Example Lesson: Embracing uniqueness
Explanation: The book celebrates characters who are different, teaching that uniqueness is a strength.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to appreciate what makes them and others special, promoting self-esteem and inclusivity in social interactions.