The Neighbors
What’s inside...
As a young girl climbs the seven stories to her own apartment, she imagines wild scenarios behind each door she passes. From a family of thieves to a pet tiger, her imagination runs wild with each floor. The vibrant illustrations bring to life a high-flying circus, an underwater world, and more. When she reaches her apartment, her parents greet her, hinting at having a secret that could be even wilder than the ones she imagined.
Discussion points
What do you think about the different homes the girl imagines? Which one would you like to visit?
How do the illustrations help tell the story of each neighbor's unique personality?
Why do you think the girl is curious about her neighbors? Have you ever wondered about people you see every day?
What do you think makes a good neighbor? How can we be good neighbors to the people around us?
How did your feelings about the girl’s own home change by the end of the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
While reading 'The Neighbors' with your child, highlight the vibrant illustrations and ask them to describe what they see. Emphasize the diversity and uniqueness of each apartment, encouraging your child to use their imagination. Discuss the concept of community and the importance of knowing who our neighbors are. Finally, relate the story to your child’s experiences by asking about their imaginings or feelings about your own neighborhood.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Imagination and Curiosity
Explanation: The protagonist's imaginative speculation about her neighbors' lives encourages children to think creatively and explore the world around them through curiosity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to use their imagination to understand and interpret different situations in their everyday interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Diversity and Open-mindedness
Explanation: The depiction of diverse and eccentric neighbors highlights the acceptance of different cultures and lifestyles, teaching children the importance of being open to all kinds of people.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to approach social situations with an open mind and embrace the diversity they find in their classrooms, playgrounds, and communities.
Example Lesson: Not judging by appearances
Explanation: Contrasts between the protagonist’s imaginative expectations and the reality of her neighbors’ lives serve as a reminder that appearances can be deceiving.
Real-World Application: Instills the value of not forming opinions about people based on their outward appearance, promoting deeper understanding and kindness towards others.
Example Lesson: Exploration and discovery
Explanation: The young girl’s journey through the apartment building turns into an adventure, showcasing the joy and knowledge that comes from exploring new environments.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to engage in explorative play and seek new experiences both in their physical and imaginative explorations.