What's Wrong with Timmy?

Last updated Monday, February 2, 2004

Author: Maria Shriver
Illustrator: Sandra Speidel
Date of Publication: 2001
ISBN: 0316233374
Grade Level: 4th
Date(s) Used: February 2004

Synopsis: When 8-year-old Kate meets a boy who seems somehow different, she feels funny inside. After talking with her mom, though, Kate begins to understand that Timmy is just like her in many ways.

Discussion topics:

• What does disabled mean?
• Do you know anyone who is disabled? How do you treat them?
• How would it feel if you were disabled?

Craft ideas:

• Create ways to try out different disabilities: have children put on a blindfold, and have others work with them. Then try covering their ears, pretending they can’t walk or read, or other ideas.

*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!