We All Play
on Goodreads (1,107)
What’s inside...
Written by the critically acclaimed author and artist, Julie Flett, this book celebrates the interconnectedness of all living things through the perspective of Indigenous cultures. It encourages children to learn about, respect, and appreciate Indigenous cultures while also featuring familiar animals like rabbits, foxes, and bears. The book includes a guide to Cree words, with each animal's name listed in Cree in the back matter. 'We Play Too! / kimêtawânaw mîna' is a refrain repeated throughout the book in both English and Cree, emphasizing the playful and universal nature of the animals and children depicted. Flett's previous book 'Birdsong' received multiple accolades, showcasing her talent and the importance of her work in children's literature.
Age
0-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways the animals in the book play? How do you like to play?
Why do you think it's important for the animals to rest after playing?
Can you think of a time when you felt like one of the animals in the story?
How do the animals in the book help each other have fun while playing?
What new game would you like to try after reading about the animals' games?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a cheerful and curious tone to make the child feel comfortable and excited to explore the themes of play and rest.
Encourage the child to relate their personal play experiences with those depicted in the book, fostering a deeper connection to the content.
Discuss the illustrations and ask the child to describe what they see, promoting observation skills and attention to detail.
Invite the child to imagine alternative endings or additional adventures for the animals, encouraging creativity and storytelling skills.
After reading, engage in a playful activity inspired by the book, reinforcing the theme and making the reading experience interactive.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation for nature
Explanation: The book 'We All Play' showcases various animals at play in their natural habitats, encouraging children to notice and appreciate the natural world around them.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to observe and engage with their environment, whether playing in a park or exploring a backyard, fostering a lifelong respect and love for nature.
Example Lesson: Cultural awareness
Explanation: Author Julie Flett, a Cree-Métis artist, integrates elements of Indigenous cultures in the illustrations and storytelling, providing a window into a rich cultural perspective.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to learn more about different cultures and heritage, promoting diversity and inclusion from a young age.
Example Lesson: Importance of play
Explanation: The narrative underlines the universal joy and importance of playing, not only among humans but across the animal kingdom, emphasizing that play is a natural and essential part of life.
Real-World Application: Children can relate this to their own play, understanding that it is a vital part of learning and interacting with others, and not just a leisure activity.
Example Lesson: Interconnectivity of life
Explanation: By illustrating both animal and child play, the book subtly teaches that all living creatures are connected and that we share more similarities than differences.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop empathy and understand the value of community and cooperation, enhancing their social skills and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Language skills development
Explanation: The repetitive and lyrical phrasing in 'We All Play' helps children develop early language skills and phonemic awareness.
Real-World Application: Regular reading of such narratives can enhance a child's vocabulary and comprehension skills, setting a strong foundation for future communication abilities.