This Is Our House
on Goodreads (382)
What’s inside...
Hyewon Yum's This is Our House tells the story of a family who has lived in the same house for many generations. The book traces the family's journey from the early days of immigration, through the various seasons of their lives, to the moments that transformed the house into a home. With a blooming tree as a constant witness, the generations, including Grandma and Grandpa's arrival, Mom and her brothers' childhood, and the little girl's first steps, are warmly depicted with spare text.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
36 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What makes a house feel like a home to you?
How do you think George felt when he said 'This is Our House'?
Why is it important to share spaces with others?
How can we make everyone feel welcome in our home or school?
What would you do if you saw someone being excluded like in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing a personal story about a time you felt welcomed or excluded, to create a safe space for open dialogue.
Encourage empathy by asking your child to imagine how they would feel in the characters' situations.
Praise your child for insightful or thoughtful responses, reinforcing positive thinking and consideration for others.
Relate the story’s themes to real-life events in your child’s life, such as school or playing with friends, to make the discussion relevant.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to delve deeper into their understanding and feelings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Sharing and Inclusivity
Explanation: The story revolves around a young boy, George, who learns the value of sharing his space and including others, regardless of their differences.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to practice inclusivity and sharing in playschool, playgrounds, and other social settings, promoting a more harmonious and understanding environment.
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: George confronts his own biases concerning who should play in 'his' house, ultimately recognizing the importance of embracing individuals from various backgrounds.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate diversity in their classrooms and neighborhoods, fostering a sense of community and respect for others.
Example Lesson: Conflict Resolution
Explanation: The book illustrates how children can resolve disputes respectfully and constructively, as George and his friends find a way to all play together despite initial disagreements.
Real-World Application: By mirroring these behaviors, children can learn to handle conflicts in school or with peers effectively, promoting peaceful interactions.