In Lucia's Neighborhood
What’s inside...
This beautiful, thought-provoking picture book follows seven-year-old Lucia as she takes readers on a daylong tour of her bustling city neighborhood. Inspired by urban studies writer and activist Jane Jacobs, Lucia comments on her intergenerational and multicultural neighbors who participate in various activities, such as going to school, tending gardens, and opening shops. The book, adapted from an animated short film by Pat Shewchuk and Marek Colek, also highlights Lucia's excitement for the Portuguese cultural festival of Senhor Da Pedra. With its vivid illustrations and rich content, the book serves both as an engaging read and an educational resource aligning with elementary social studies curriculum, sparking discussions about community and inspiring students to explore their own neighborhoods.
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some of your favorite things about your neighborhood like Lucia’s?
How do you think Lucia feels when she explores her neighborhood? Can you relate to any of her feelings?
What characters in the book did you find interesting and why?
If you could add a place to Lucia’s neighborhood, what would it be and why?
How do you think the neighborhood helps Lucia learn and grow?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing Lucia's feelings, encourage your child to express their own feelings about their surroundings, fostering emotional intelligence.
Ask your child to describe their favorite neighborhood characters or features, promoting their observation and descriptive skills.
Suggest drawing a map or creating a story about their own neighborhood, enhancing creativity and personal connection to the book’s theme.
Use the book as a starting point to explore your actual neighborhood, linking the story to real-life experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Community
Explanation: The story follows Lucia as she explores and interacts with various aspects of her vibrant neighborhood, showcasing the importance of community involvement.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to observe and appreciate the diversity and energy of their own neighborhoods, respecting and participating in local events.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness
Explanation: Through Lucia's encounters with different people and traditions in her neighborhood, the book illustrates the richness of cultural diversity.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to explore and embrace different cultures within their community, fostering a sense of global awareness and inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: Lucia uses her imagination to turn everyday sights and sounds into exciting adventures, encouraging creative thinking.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use their imagination to transform their daily experiences into creative adventures, enhancing problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Observation Skills
Explanation: The detailed illustrations and Lucia’s active exploration invite readers to pay close attention to the details around them.
Real-World Application: This can help children become more observant and attentive to the details in their environment, improving their overall cognitive skills.
Example Lesson: The Value of Storytelling
Explanation: As Lucia shares her experiences, the book highlights the importance of storytelling in sharing one's experiences and emotions.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to share their own stories and listen to others’, enhancing their communication skills and emotional intelligence.