Whose House Is This
on Goodreads (2)
What’s inside...
In 'Whose House Is This?', author Graham Percy takes readers on a whimsical journey through a series of imaginative dwellings. Each page introduces a new and unique abode, asking the titular question and inviting children to guess which animal or character might reside within. With vibrant illustrations and playful rhymes, Percy's book is an interactive experience that encourages curiosity and observation skills. As the mystery of each house is revealed, young readers learn about the diverse habitats and lifestyles of various creatures, both real and fantastical. 'Whose House Is This?' is not only a delightful read but also an educational tool that subtly teaches about the importance of home and belonging. Big three-and-one-half-inch tall houses die-cut in the shape of the 26 letters of the alphabet open to reveal all kinds of workers, from Andy the astronaut to Zach the zookeeper. Full color.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
16 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes a house special for the animals we read about?
Can you describe how the house of the mouse might look different from the house of the bear?
Why do you think each animal has a different kind of house?
If you were an animal, what kind of house would you build for yourself?
How do you feel when you are in your own house?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive and animated tones when discussing different animal houses to make the conversation more lively.
Encourage your child to draw their version of an ideal house for their favorite animal from the book.
Ask your child to compare their own house to the animals' houses, discussing what's similar and what's different.
Pose hypothetical scenarios, like 'What if you visited the mouse’s house? What would you do there?' to spark imagination.
Reinforce the idea that every house, no matter how big or small, serves as a special and safe place for its inhabitants.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding of different animals and their habitats
Explanation: Through vivid illustrations and engaging text, 'Whose House Is This?' introduces children to various animals and where they live. It helps kids connect the animal with its natural habitat.
Real-World Application: Children can become more observant of their surroundings, developing an appreciation for nature and biodiversity, and recognizing the importance of different habitats in the environment.
Example Lesson: Developing problem-solving skills
Explanation: 'Whose House Is This?' encourages children to guess which animal lives in which house, promoting critical thinking and inference skills.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to use clues and reasoning in everyday situations which enhances their decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
Example Lesson: Enhancing memory and recall
Explanation: As children guess the animal based on its house, they also practice memory skills, linking visual elements with facts.
Real-World Application: This skill helps in academic settings where recall of information is beneficial, and also in daily tasks that require remembering details.
Example Lesson: Importance of respecting privacy
Explanation: The book's premise of guessing 'Whose House Is This?' subtly teaches children the importance of respecting others' private spaces.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of personal boundaries and respecting others' spaces, both physically and emotionally, in their interactions.