Home at Last
on Goodreads (381)
What’s inside...
Home at Last is a poignant picture book about fear, adoption, family, and the joy of fatherhood, penned by beloved author Vera B. Williams and illustrated in collaboration with two-time Caldecott Medalist Chris Raschka. It tells the story of Lester, an adopted child who struggles to fall asleep in his new home. Despite the comforting efforts of his adoptive fathers, Daddy Albert and Daddy Rich, Lester continues to feel scared and worried at night. It isn't until the family dog, Wincka, climbs into bed with him that Lester finally feels secure and at home. The book honors the spirit and intent of Vera B. Williams, who passed away while working on this project with her dear friend Chris Raschka. Home at Last addresses the universal need for belonging and the importance of providing a safe place for all children.
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Lester
Wincka
Daddy Rich
Daddy Albert
Discussion points
How do you think Lester felt when he was finally able to call the place he lives 'home'?
Why do you think it was important for Lester to have a dog like Wincka by his side?
What does 'feeling safe' mean to you, and how can we make our home feel more secure and comforting?
How do the different characters show love and support to each other in the story?
Can you think of a time when you felt unsure or worried, and someone helped you feel better?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing 'Home at Last,' use empathetic language to help your child relate to Lester’s feelings of searching for a secure home.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts on family and belonging, affirming their feelings and helping them understand the emotional layers of the story.
Ask follow-up questions that prompt your child to think about how they can support friends or family members who might feel like Lester.
Link discussions from the book to real-world scenarios, enhancing your child's ability to empathize with others in similar situations.
Praise your child for their insights and remind them that feelings like Lester’s are normal, and it's okay to talk about them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of family and belonging
Explanation: In 'Home at Last,' the story revolves around Lester, an adopted child who struggles to feel secure in his new home until his adoptive parents provide constant reassurance of their love.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of family support and emotional security, knowing that a loving family provides a safe space to grow and be oneself.
Example Lesson: Coping with change and uncertainty
Explanation: Lester's journey reflects the challenges and insecurities faced when encountering new environments and significant life changes.
Real-World Application: This teaches children resilience and adaptability, skills that are essential when navigating school transitions, family dynamics changes, or moving to new places.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The adoptive parents show deep empathy and patience towards Lester's fears and needs, helping him feel understood and accepted.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of empathy by seeing how understanding others' feelings and perspectives can lead to stronger, more supportive relationships.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Despite initial difficulties, Lester and his parents keep working on building their relationship and trust, showing perseverance.
Real-World Application: This highlights for children the value of persisting through difficult situations, emphasizing that steady efforts can lead to positive outcomes.