Trevor
What’s inside...
Trevor is a lonely yellow canary in search of companionship. As he stretches his wings within his dull cage, he notices a nearby tree extending its branch with what appears to be another canary at its tip. Trevor soon discovers that his potential new friend is actually a lemon. Despite this, Trevor approaches the lemon with kindness and understanding, fostering a bond that proves that friendship doesn't require similarity. This beautifully narrated story by Jim Averbeck and illustrated by Amy Hevron demonstrates the value of embracing differences and building meaningful relationships.
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Trevor
Discussion points
How do you think Trevor felt when he first met the lemon tree?
What do you think the lemon tree represents in Trevor's life?
Why do you think it's important for Trevor to take care of the lemon tree?
How did Trevor change from the beginning to the end of the story?
If you were Trevor, what would you have done differently?
Tip: Role play these questions
Read the story together, then ask your child to summarize the story in their own words; this helps with comprehension and recall.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s personal experiences, such as making new friends or taking care of something important.
Discuss the illustrations and how they add depth to the story, asking your child what they notice and like about them.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story, validating their thoughts and helping them connect emotionally.
Ask your child to imagine a sequel to the book. What would they like to happen next in Trevor's life?
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: Trevor, a colorful parrot, interacts with various birds of different species, emphasizing the beauty and importance of diversity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and embrace differences among their peers, fostering inclusivity from a young age.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, Trevor forms meaningful relationships with other birds despite their differences, highlighting how friendships can transcend physical appearances.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to build and cherish friendships based on mutual respect and personality, not just outward appearances.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Trevor faces challenges but perseveres, showcasing resilience.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to remain hopeful and persistent, even when faced with obstacles.
Example Lesson: Creative Problem Solving
Explanation: Trevor uses his unique skills to navigate through the story, demonstrating the power of creative thinking.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply creativity to solve problems in their own lives, thinking outside the box for effective solutions.
Example Lesson: Joy of Exploration
Explanation: The curiosity of Trevor leads him to explore his surroundings, enhancing his understanding and appreciation of the world.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to discover the world around them, whether it's a new book, a puzzle, or a nature walk, promoting lifelong learning and curiosity.