From My Heart To Yours: A Children's Book
What’s inside...
From My Heart to Yours tells the story of a family with four children living in a house away from the city. The youngest child, who was rebellious at bedtime, would be told stories by his father to help him sleep. Eventually, the father ran out of new stories to tell and began repeating the same ones. One night, the child refused to listen to the old story and begged for a new one. The father, looking into his child's imploring eyes, agreed to tell a new story from his heart.
Age
9-10
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the book make you feel when we read about the characters sharing their feelings?
Why do you think it's important to share your feelings with others?
What are some ways you can show kindness to your friends, just like the characters did?
Which character did you relate to the most and why?
If you could add another scene to the book, what would it be about?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voices for each character to make the story come alive - this can make the discussion about the characters' feelings more relatable.
After reading the book, encourage your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene. Discuss why they chose that particular scene and what it means to them.
Connect the story's themes to your child's experiences by sharing a personal story from your own life where you expressed kindness or shared emotions.
Ask your child to predict what could happen next if the story continued, fostering imagination and deeper thinking about the book’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Michael Quintana's book teaches children about empathy by showcasing a character who learns to understand and share the feelings of others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by recognizing emotions in their friends and family and responding with kindness and support.
Example Lesson: Sharing and Generosity
Explanation: The protagonist in the story learns the importance of sharing their possessions and time with others, highlighting generosity as a key theme.
Real-World Application: This concept can be encouraged in children when they share toys with their peers or help their parents and teachers without expecting anything in return.
Example Lesson: The Value of Honesty
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters find that honesty builds trust and strengthens relationships, teaching the reader about the benefits of being truthful.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be honest in their daily interactions, which will help them build trustworthiness among friends and family.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Explanation: The book illustrates a character overcoming challenges through persistence, thereby teaching resilience.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to not give up easily on their tasks or when facing difficulties, whether in school or in personal activities.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family and Friendship
Explanation: The story emphasizes strong familial bonds and supportive friendships as sources of comfort and joy.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to appreciate and nurture their relationships with family members and friends, understanding their crucial role in personal happiness and support.