Pearl Barley and Charlie Parsley



Last updated Monday, June 10, 2013

Author: Aaron Blabey
Date of Publication: 2008
ISBN: 1590785967
Grade Level: Kindergarten    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Feb. 2013

Synopsis: Amazon.com Review
A delightfully uplifting tale about self-belief, courage, and - above all - the power of friendship. Pearl Barley and Charlie Parsley are the best of friends. But they are different in almost every way: Pearl loves solving mysteries and moves rather fast in the world, and Charlie likes taking leisurely baths and watching his flowers grow. So how can Pearl Barley and Charlie Parsley be such good friends?

Note to readers:
•  As you read ask the students to raise their hands if they are more like Pearl or Charlie

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  What do you think this book is about?
•  Do you have a best friend?
•  Are you and your best friend alike or different?

Vocabulary:
•  Mystery- something that is hard to explain or understand
•  Amok- behaving in an uncontrolled or wild way
•  Bedside manner- the way a doctor interacts with his or her patient
•  Lonely - when someone is sad from being alone

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  How can Pearl Barley and Charlie Parsley be such good friends?
•  What's one way you are like your best friend and one way you are different?
•  How does your best friend make you be a better person?

Craft ideas:
•  Make Pearl Barley and Charlie Parsley puppets with either paper bags or construction paper and Popsicle sticks.
•  Make Valentine's Day cards for your friends and family using construction paper.

*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!