This Old House
on Goodreads (104)
What’s inside...
This Old House is a picture book by Leo Hartas that depicts a day in the life of a creaky old apartment block. Hartas removes the front wall of a five-story building in his illustrations, revealing the lives of its 20 inhabitants, several cats, and other animals. Readers encounter a diverse cast including Dot Splot the artist, Professor Algebrus the inventor, and Miss Stella Starspangle, among others. The book takes readers through the day, from early morning to the small hours of the following morning, with intricate details that keep curious eyes engaged.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes this old house special?
Can you describe a favorite memory from a place where you feel safe and loved?
How do you think the characters feel about the house?
What changes would you make to the house if it was yours?
Why do you think taking care of our homes is important?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use empathetic listening. Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the house and relate them to their own experiences with home.
Draw parallels between the book and your child’s life. Discuss the similarities and differences they see between their home and the 'old house' in the story.
Focus on the emotional aspects. Ask your child how the story makes them feel and why certain parts of the house or story stand out to them.
Encourage creativity. Ask your child to imagine their ideal house and describe or draw it.
Stress the importance of care and maintenance. Discuss why it’s important to look after places we live in and love.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of Teamwork
Explanation: In 'This Old House,' characters come together to renovate an old house, demonstrating collaboration and mutual help.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working together to achieve common goals, which can be applied in school projects or family activities.
Example Lesson: Respect for History and Heritage
Explanation: The story emphasizes preserving the old house and appreciating its history, instilling a sense of respect for past generations.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to appreciate and care for historical landmarks in their community or family heirlooms at home.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Problem Solving
Explanation: As characters encounter various challenges while fixing the house, they use creative solutions and critical thinking to overcome them.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think creatively when facing problems and to view obstacles as opportunities for innovation.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Hard Work
Explanation: The renovation process in the book is arduous and full of setbacks, yet the characters persevere and remain dedicated to their task.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to stay persistent in their endeavors, be it in academics, sports, or personal projects, understanding that effort leads to rewarding outcomes.
Example Lesson: Sense of Community
Explanation: The renovation project brings together various people from the neighborhood, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children see the value of community involvement and encourages them to take part in local events or community service.