Whale Boy
on Goodreads (137)
What’s inside...
Perfect for any young reader who loves animals, the powerful and heartwarming story of a boy's friendship with a baby whale Michael, a young boy growing up on the tropical island of Rose Town, has been saving up for his own fishing boat for years. But when a terrible storm wrecks his home, Michael is forced to take a job working for a rich, mysterious newcomer named Spargo. Spargo asks Michael to search for one thing in the deep waters around Rose Town—whales. This is moving, adventure-packed fiction at its very best, with a strong environmental message.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
272 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made Whale Boy feel connected to the sea and the creatures living in it?
How do you think the story would change if Whale Boy lived in a big city instead of an island?
Why is it important to protect animals and their habitats like Whale Boy did?
What qualities do you admire in Whale Boy and why?
How do you feel about the way the story ended, and what would you have done differently if you were in Whale Boy's shoes?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, explore what your child already knows about whales and marine life to build a base for new knowledge.
Pause at pivotal moments in the story to ask your child how they think a character is feeling or what they might do next.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s everyday life, such as discussing the importance of taking care of pets or local wildlife.
After finishing the book, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character to deepen their connection to the story.
Use empathetic language to discuss the moral dilemmas faced by characters, helping your child understand different perspectives.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Whale Boy', the protagonist shows great empathy towards the whale, understanding its feelings and needs, which demonstrates a powerful moral of putting oneself in another's place.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize and respect the feelings and perspectives of others, leading to more compassionate interactions in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the story, the main character faces numerous challenges but remains determined and perseveres, showcasing the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to not give up easily when faced with difficulties, whether in school, sports, or their personal pursuits.
Example Lesson: Conservation and Environmental Responsibility
Explanation: The book emphasizes the necessity of protecting wildlife and natural habitats, through the protagonist's efforts to save the whale.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in environmental conservation activities and be more conscious about their actions affecting the environment.
Example Lesson: Courage and Advocacy
Explanation: The protagonist exhibits courage by standing up for the whale, teaching the importance of advocating for those who cannot speak for themselves.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to speak out and stand up for their peers or causes they believe in, promoting an active and engaged citizenship.
Example Lesson: The Power of Community
Explanation: The story shows how coming together as a community can lead to positive changes and successful outcomes, as seen when the village supports the protagonist.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of teamwork and community support in achieving common goals and overcoming challenges.