Mrs. Popham's Library
What’s inside...
When letters begin sliding off the pages of the books in Mrs. Popham's library, her elementary school embarks on an adventure in creativity that forever changes the way the students think about reading and writing. With classes suspended, everyone from the principal to the janitor gathers together to confront the mysterious problem and decide what to do about the mountain of type heaped upon the library floor. Julius suggests pasting each of the countless letters back in place, Rodney treats them like autumn leaves, several girls take to wearing them on their cheeks, and little Leonard laments the disappearance of his two favorite books, the ones he borrows every Friday. In a sudden burst of inspiration, the bewildered Mrs. Popham invites the students to create their own books from the scattered letters, precipitating an explosion of interest in the library, in books, and in the limitless creativity of the school's most colorful characters. Reading will never be the same in Mrs. Popham's library.
Age
4-8
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes Mrs. Popham's library special?
How do the characters change throughout the story, and what do they learn?
How would you feel if a magical library appeared in your town?
Which book from Mrs. Popham's library would you like to read the most and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters and the magical library to life, making the story more engaging for your child.
After reading, visit a local library together to draw real-life parallels and deepen your child's connection to the story.
Encourage your child to describe what their own magical library would look like, promoting creativity and imagination.
Discuss the importance of community and sharing, as illustrated by the library's impact on the town, to instill values of kindness and collaboration.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of community and teamwork
Explanation: In 'Mrs. Popham's Library,' the community comes together to support Mrs. Popham in running the library. This highlights how collaboration can lead to positive outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to participate in group activities and understand the importance of working together towards a common goal, whether at school or in extra-curricular clubs.
Example Lesson: Respect for knowledge and learning
Explanation: Mrs. Popham's dedication to maintaining the library and encouraging reading among the community members showcases a deep respect for knowledge.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to develop a love for reading and learning, seeing it as a doorway to understanding the world around them.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of challenges
Explanation: Despite facing various obstacles, Mrs. Popham remains determined to keep the library open, teaching the reader about resilience.
Real-World Application: This story can inspire children to persist in their efforts, whether in completing a difficult homework assignment or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Generosity and community service
Explanation: Mrs. Popham exemplifies generosity by dedicating her time and resources to the library, which benefits her entire community.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of giving back to their community and helping others, possibly through volunteering or helping peers in need.