Valentine's Guest House
Child's Play Library Series
on Goodreads (58)
What’s inside...
Valentine's Guest House is a heartwarming tale of a young protagonist who discovers an enchanting guest house filled with magical creatures and unexpected friendships. Throughout the story, the protagonist learns valuable lessons about kindness, courage, and the importance of being true to oneself. When a tiger comes to stay at Valentine's guest house, the human visitors all check out in a rush. The hotel soon starts to fill again, but with a very different collection of residents, all with new and differing needs. Elsie and Valentine make lots of changes to accommodate the new guests, and a very popular, accessible and unusual guest house results! A beautiful debut picture book about diversity, inclusivity and empowerment.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What would you do if you found a magical guest house like in the story?
How do you think Valentine felt when he first discovered the guest house?
Why is it important to help others, as Valentine did in the story?
What would you have done differently if you were in Valentine’s place?
How did the story change your thoughts about kindness and generosity?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by recounting your favorite part of 'Valentine’s Guest House' with your child, then ask them about theirs. This mutual sharing sets a comfortable tone. Use open-ended questions provided to foster deeper thinking and emotional connections to the story. Echo their responses with follow-up inquiries to encourage elaboration. Connect themes from the book to real-life situations your child might encounter, emphasizing the values of kindness and community assistance.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Kindness
Explanation: In 'Valentine's Guest House', the protagonist demonstrates kindness by welcoming and helping guests, fostering a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by being helpful and considerate towards others in their daily interactions, such as at school or during play.
Example Lesson: Value of Hard Work
Explanation: The characters in the book work together to maintain the guest house, showing the rewards of dedication and teamwork.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of cooperating and contributing to group efforts, be it in family chores or school projects.
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: The guest house hosts visitors from various backgrounds, teaching the readers about cultural diversity and acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect differences among people, fostering inclusivity in their own communities.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters encounter and resolve conflicts by coming up with creative solutions, emphasizing the significance of thoughtful problem solving.
Real-World Application: Kids can use these skills to navigate challenges in school or in friendships, enhancing their critical thinking abilities.
Example Lesson: Joy of Hospitality
Explanation: By taking part in the running of the guest house, characters experience the pleasure and satisfaction of making others feel welcomed and cared for.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to practice hospitality and generosity, improving their social interactions and emotional well-being.