We're Going Places
What’s inside...
We're Going Places is a heartwarming and inspiring story about a group of children with disabilities who embark on a journey to prove that they are capable of achieving great things. With the help of their dedicated teacher, they overcome obstacles and challenges to participate in a national competition. Along the way, they learn valuable lessons about friendship, determination, and the power of believing in oneself. This uplifting tale celebrates the resilience and potential of individuals with disabilities, and reminds readers that everyone has the ability to go places in life. The second children's book from the wonderful illustrator John Broadley, working with Booker-shortlisted novelist Mick Jackson, following their glorious debut While You're Sleeping. Mick Jackson's poetic prose and John Broadley's detailed and unique illustrations make this a special book to read again and again, and treasure for years to come.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think are the most exciting places the characters visited in the story?
How do you think the characters felt when they were exploring new places?
If you could choose any place to explore, where would it be and why?
What did the characters learn during their journey?
How would you help a friend who was nervous about going on an adventure?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child to predict what places the characters might visit based on the book's title.
While reading, pause at new locations to discuss what your child finds interesting about each place.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a map of their favorite place from the book and explain why they chose that location.
Use open-ended questions that prompt more than a yes or no answer to foster deeper discussion and critical thinking.
Relate the story to personal experiences by sharing your own stories of visiting new places or trying new things.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: In 'We're Going Places', children collaborate to build a plane, demonstrating how working together can lead to achieving great goals.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of cooperating with peers during group activities at school or in play, appreciating everyone's unique contributions.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Innovation
Explanation: The story showcases children using their imagination to create a plane from scratch, encouraging innovative thinking.
Real-World Application: This lesson inspires children to think creatively in problem-solving situations, whether in academic projects or daily challenges.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: As the children face challenges in building the plane, they continue to persevere until they succeed, highlighting the value of persistence.
Real-World Application: Children learn to keep trying in the face of difficulties, a skill that helps them overcome obstacles in learning and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Joy in Learning
Explanation: The excitement and satisfaction the children experience during their creative project emphasizes the joy found in learning and trying new things.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children associate positive emotions with learning, fostering a lifelong love for education.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the children encounter and solve problems together while building the plane, which enhances their problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to apply logical and creative thinking to resolve issues they encounter at home, in school, or with friends.