What If...
on Goodreads (1,755)
What’s inside...
Creativity, the power of imagination, and the importance of self-expression are celebrated in this inspiring picture book written and illustrated by real-life best friends. This girl is determined to express herself! If she can't draw her dreams, she'll sculpt or build, carve or collage. If she can't do that, she'll turn her world into a canvas. And if everything around her is taken away, she'll sing, dance, and dream... Stunning mixed media illustrations, lyrical text, and a breathtaking gatefold conjure powerful magic in this heartfelt affirmation of art, imagination, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
34 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What is your favorite part of the book, and why does it stand out to you?
If you could create something like the character in the story, what would you make?
How do you think the character felt when their tools were taken away? Have you ever felt similar?
What does this story teach us about using our imagination?
Can you think of a time when you had to solve a problem differently? What did you do?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by reading the book together, then ask your child to describe the story in their own words. This helps deepen their understanding and recall. Encourage them to express their feelings about the story and relate personal experiences to the plot. Use the questions to delve deeper into the themes of creativity and resilience, praising their unique responses. Finally, consider creating a small project inspired by the book to reinforce the themes of innovation and persistence.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and Resilience
Explanation: In 'What If...', the young protagonist faces various obstacles that threaten her ability to express herself through art. Yet, she continually finds new ways to create, using whatever materials she can find.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of creative problem-solving and resilience in the face of challenges. This encourages them to think innovatively and persistently, both in their artistic endeavors and in daily problem-solving scenarios.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The story shows how the protagonist adapts her artistic methods in response to her changing circumstances, demonstrating flexibility and openness to new experiences.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the value of adapting to new situations, whether it's moving to a new place, changing schools, or simply trying out a new activity. This skill is crucial for personal growth and success.
Example Lesson: Self-expression
Explanation: Throughout the book, the central character uses art as a form of personal expression, showcasing her feelings, thoughts, and perspectives uniquely and creatively.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and express their thoughts and emotions through art or other forms of expression, helping them to communicate more effectively and develop their identity.
Example Lesson: The power of imagination
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes how the character uses her imagination to overcome obstacles and to continue creating art, regardless of the limitations imposed by her environment.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their imagination not just as a form of play, but as a tool to navigate and understand the world around them, fostering innovative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Environmental awareness
Explanation: As the protagonist uses different natural and recycled materials for her art, the book subtly promotes environmental consciousness and the importance of recycling.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of caring for the environment by reusing and repurposing materials, thus planting the seeds for environmentally responsible behavior.