Too Quiet, Too Noisy
What’s inside...
In 'Too Quiet, Too Noisy,' a children's book by Bonnie Ferrante, we follow the story of a young girl named Lily who is trying to find the perfect level of noise in her life. At home, she finds the noise of her family overwhelming, with the television blaring, her brother playing drums, and the baby crying. Seeking peace, she goes to her grandmother's house, only to find it too quiet for her liking. Throughout the book, Lily learns to appreciate the different sounds around her and finds a way to create a balance between too quiet and too noisy, ultimately understanding the value of both silence and sound in her life.
Discussion points
How did the different sounds in the story make you feel?
Which place in the book did you think was too noisy, and which was too quiet? Why?
What sounds do you like or dislike in our own home or places we visit?
Can you think of a way to make a noisy place quieter or a quiet place noisier?
How do you think the characters felt in the noisy and quiet places?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, discuss your child’s current feelings about noise levels in different environments they are familiar with.
While reading, pause at different scenes to ask your child how they think the characters are feeling.
Encourage your child to imagine and describe a place they think has the perfect sound environment.
After reading, spend a day paying attention to different sounds around you and discuss what you hear, using examples from the book as reference.
Link the story to real-life scenarios by discussing family experiences related to noise levels at events or places you have visited together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of quiet and noisy environments
Explanation: The story illustrates the balance between loud and quiet moments, helping children understand that both can be enjoyable and necessary.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to find pleasure in serene activities like reading or drawing, and also in energetic ones like playing or singing, helping them adapt to various environments.
Example Lesson: Understanding personal preferences
Explanation: Characters in the book express different comfort levels with noise, highlighting that everyone has unique preferences.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to respect their own preferences and those of others, whether they need quiet for concentration or noise for excitement.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The main character navigates environments of varying noise levels, demonstrating adaptability.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to adjust their behavior and expectations in different settings, such as being quieter in a library and more energetic in a playground.
Example Lesson: Importance of communication
Explanation: The story shows the character communicating their needs about noise levels, underscoring the importance of expressing oneself.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to voice their comfort levels and preferences in various situations, enhancing their communication skills.
Example Lesson: Valuing diversity
Explanation: By encountering different environments and people with varying noise preferences, the book celebrates diversity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and embrace differences in others’ lifestyles and choices, promoting inclusivity.