Lesson 1 - Get to Know
the Book
The Grown-Up Scoop
These first lessons are all about discovering this amazing book. Use this time to not only read it, but to start diving into the themes and details of the story!
Below are links to download the Book Pack Plan and Study Guide for We Are Water Protectors. Feel free to use these to explore the book on your own, or as a guide to follow along with as you travel through the sections.
Before You Read
To get started, share this short story summary with your child(ren):
What do you do when life knocks you down? This story explores the range of emotions we can feel when something JUST GOES WRONG! Just as Taylor completes a towering structure with pride, a flock of birds sends it tumbling to the ground. Various characters offer Taylor unique solutions to the tumbled blocks, while a lone bunny comes to sit and listen to Taylor’s thoughts. The language and illustrations reflect the various ways we communicate our emotions: with our faces, bodies, and words. Ultimately, we are reminded of the invaluable art of listening.
Now, sitting comfortably with your child(ren), show them the front and back covers of the book. Then ask questions, like the following, to stimulate their thinking, to encourage them to read, and to create wonder.
Are You Ready?
Begin each lesson with an African A-GO and A-MAY exercise to bring child(ren) to attention.
A-GO: Means “Are you ready to listen in silence?” (Explain the meaning and have them repeat the word.)
A-MAY: Means “Yes, I am ready to listen in silence and you may begin.” (Explain the meaning and have them repeat the word.)
Before Reading Questions:
✓ What type of materials do you think the artist used to illustrate the cover?
✓ Describe how the artwork makes you feel.
✓ What makes a good listener?
✓ Compare the character’s feelings on the front and back of the book.
✓ What do you think the author wants you to know?
✓ What do you like to build? What materials do you like to use?
Read the Book
When you are ready, read the book with your child(ren). Remember to have fun with it!
After You Read
After reading, review the story and its details by asking more questions to your child/children.
Post Reading Questions:
✓ How did Taylor feel just as the building block tower was completed?
✓ Describe what happened to Taylor’s creation.
✓ What strategies did the animals offer to help Taylor? Why?
✓ Why do you think the illustrator left so much blank space on some pages?
✓ What emotions did Taylor express throughout the story?
✓ How did the Rabbit help Taylor?