What a Year! (A 26 Fairmount Avenue Book)
#4 of 8 in 26 Fairmount Avenue Series
on Goodreads (371)
What’s inside...
The author recounts memories from a year of his childhood, including his sixth birthday, his first time trick-or-treating dressed as Snow White, a bout of chicken pox, and Christmas celebrations with his family. 'On My Way', the third book in the 26 Fairmount Avenue series, received positive reviews, including one from School Library Journal celebrating the promise of more stories. The fourth book continues to charm with heart-warming, humorous stories set at the Newbery-Honor winning address, encapsulating an eventful year for the author.
Discussion points
How did the different seasons in the book make you feel, and which one was your favorite?
What were some of the big events that happened to Tomie during the year, and how do you think they changed him?
If you could give advice to Tomie at the start of his year, what would you tell him?
Which of Tomie's family members or friends would you like to meet and why?
What lesson do you think Tomie learned by the end of the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book’s events, connecting them to their own experiences. Ask questions that prompt them to think about personal growth through the year, emphasizing empathy and understanding. Share your own stories of similar experiences to foster a deeper connection and discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout 'What a Year!', readers see characters overcoming various challenges, such as moving to a new city or starting at a different school.
Real-World Application: Children learn to adapt to changes and setbacks in their own lives, understanding that perseverance leads to personal growth.
Example Lesson: Value of family and community
Explanation: The importance of family and community support is a recurring theme, as characters interact with and rely on each other during times of change.
Real-World Application: Children understand the importance of building strong relationships and contributing positively to their community.
Example Lesson: Embracing creativity and imagination
Explanation: Tomie DePaola incorporates elements of creativity and imagination through his storytelling techniques, often blending real-life experiences with imaginative twists.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore their own creativity in various aspects of life, be it through art, writing, or play.
Example Lesson: Importance of storytelling and memory
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes the role of storytelling in preserving memories and sharing experiences with others.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to value their own stories and experiences and to share them with others, enhancing communication skills and empathy.
Example Lesson: Learning from mistakes
Explanation: Characters in the book often learn from their missteps, which helps them make better decisions in the future.
Real-World Application: Teaches children that mistakes are part of learning and growth, and that they should not be afraid to try new things for fear of failure.