Infinity and Me



Last updated Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Author: Kate Hosford
Illustrator: Gabi Swiatkowska
Date of Publication: 2012
ISBN: 0761367268
Grade Level: 3rd    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Nov. 2016

Synopsis: From School Library Journal:
"This unusual, philosophical picture book makes this seemingly difficult concept approachable and interesting. Young Uma ponders the concept of infinity with the help of friends and family. She finds that the idea can be mind-boggling, but seems less scary when considered in loving company. The story effortlessly combines the enormity of the universe with the frankly personal, as represented by Uma's pride in her new red shoes. Characters define infinity with charming and age-appropriate examples, from a family tree that goes on forever to a never-ending ice-cream cone. A fascinating endnote lets youngsters hear the voices of real children explaining infinity and challenges readers to define it for themselves. "

Note to readers:
•  Read the inner panel of the book cover.
•  Make sure to emphasize the examples of infinity given in the book.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  What does infinity mean to you?
•  Do you wan to be little forever?
•  Could you count the number of stars in the sky? Why not?

Vocabulary

•  infinity - having no end
•  symbol - something that stands for something else
•  peers / to peer - to look or squint at something
•  imagine - picture in your mind
•  realized / to realize - to understand

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  Who do you love to infinity?
•  What do you think of when you think of infinity?
•  What else can you think of that goes to infinity?
•  What song can you listen to forever?

Craft ideas:
•  Draw a family tree.
•  Make a racecar trace that goes in an infinite loop.
•  See ideas or examples on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/readingtokids/november-2016-science-tech/

Special activities:
•  Take a piece of paper and see how many time you can cut it in half.

*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!