Whoever You Are



Last updated Tuesday, May 24, 2016

Author: Mem Fox
Illustrator: Leslie Staub
Date of Publication: 1997
ISBN: 0152007873
Grade Level: Kindergarten    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Jun. 2016

Synopsis: Every day all over the world, children are laughing and crying, playing and learning, eating and sleeping. They may not look the same. They may not speak the same language. Their lives may be quite different. But inside, they are all alike. Stirring words and bold paintings weave their way around our earth, across cultures and generations. At a time when, unfortunately, the lessons of tolerance still need to be learned, Whoever You Are urges us to accept our differences, to recognize our similarities, and-most importantly-to rejoice in both.

Note to readers:
•  While reading, take time to discuss and admire the colorful artwork.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Find the "cloud man" on each page. What is he doing?
•  Identify animals when they appear.
•  Have you ever lived in another place? (state or country)

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  How are children from other places in the world different? How are they the same?
•  What are the different houses, food, clothing, etc. in the book?
•  Where are the different places you wish to visit?

Craft ideas:
•  Create collage faces of various shapes & colors. Cut and paste eyes, hair, nose, mouth, etc.
•  Make a self-portrait with a "fancy" frame.
•  Make a Father's Day card.
•  Check out our June craft ideas on Pinterest! https://www.pinterest.com/readingtokids/june-2016/

*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!