How do I talk about a book with my child?

A book is a like a jigsaw puzzle. Authors introduce us to characters, problems throughout the book and generate feelings within us, in hopes that we’ll discover the hidden message in the pages of the book. While reading with your child,  you want to help them to search for clues, piece the clues together with their own thinking and read between the lines of the book to uncover an understanding of what’s happening and why it’s happening. Just like while watching a movie, pause and talk with your child about the book.

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Things to consider while reading with your child . . . .

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Who are the characters?

What is the problem?

What relationships do you see within the book?

How are the character/characters changing throughout the book?

What is causing the changes within the character?

What questions do you have about the character or plot?

What do you think is going to happen next?

How are you feeling throughout the book and what’s causing those feelings?

What’s the message within the book?