The Most Thankful Thing



Last updated Tuesday, April 26, 2005

Author: Lisa McCourt
Illustrator: Cyd Moore
Date of Publication: 2004
ISBN: 0439650836
Grade Level: 2nd    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: May 2005

Synopsis: (from the publisher) Mama is thankful for many things in her life, but what is she most thankful for? It must be something really amazing - better than acting in the school play ? more exciting than going to the prom ? more important than getting her first job--because Mama insists that her most thankful thing can top them all. Created by the award-winning team of Lisa McCourt and Cyd Moore, The Most Thankful Thing reminds us what's most precious in every parent's heart.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  What is your most thankful thing - the things you are thankful for in your life?
•  Looking at the cover, what do you think this book is about?
•  What are some of your most fun memories?
•  What is a scrap book?

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  Can you find Mama in each of the pictures?
•  What do you think Mama?s most favorite thing is going to be? (Later - were you surprised?)
•  What did Mama like about camp? College? Her first job? (Etc.)

Craft ideas:
•  Make a ?scrap book? with drawings of your most thankful things to give to your favorite family member. Or, make the beginnings of a scrap book with construction paper, tying many pages together - make a cover and the first page.
•  Make a card to give to one person you are most thankful for.

Special activities:
•  Show the rest of the group your thankful scrap book. (Bring ahead option: if you have a scrapbook, bring one to show).

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!