Willodeen
What’s inside...
From #1 New York Times bestseller Katherine Applegate, a singular middle-grade novel about a girl who risks everything to help a handmade creature who comes to life. The earth is old and we are not, and that is all you must remember. Eleven-year-old Willodeen adores creatures of all kinds, but her favorites are the most unlovable beasts in the land: strange beasts known as 'screechers.' The villagers of Perchance call them pests, even monsters, but Willodeen believes the animals serve a vital role in the complicated web of nature. Lately, though, nature has seemed angry indeed. Perchance has been cursed with fires and mudslides, droughts and fevers, and even the annual migration of hummingbears, a source of local pride and income, has dwindled. For as long as anyone can remember, the tiny animals have overwintered in shimmering bubble nests perched atop blue willow trees, drawing tourists from far and wide. This year, however, not a single hummingbear has returned to Perchance, and no one knows why. When a handmade birthday gift brings unexpected magic to Willodeen and her new friend, Connor, she's determined to speak up for the animals she loves, and perhaps even uncover the answer to the mystery of the missing hummingbears. A timely and timeless tale about our fragile earth, and one girl's fierce determination to make a difference.
Age
8-11
Length
272 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Willodeen
Connor
Mae
Bird
Discussion points
What do you think makes Willodeen so passionate about protecting creatures and the environment?
How do you feel about the way the community treats Willodeen and her ideas? Have you ever felt misunderstood like her?
Why do you think understanding and respecting nature is important in Willodeen’s world, and in ours?
If you were in Willodeen’s place, how would you try to solve the problems affecting the environment?
What did you learn from Willodeen about standing up for what you believe in?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they would feel in Willodeen's situations, and relate those scenarios to their own experiences.
Discuss the importance of biodiversity and ecosystems, drawing parallels to local environmental issues to make it more relatable.
Highlight Willodeen’s resilience and creativity, prompting your child to think about how they can use their own strengths to help others or solve problems.
Create a dialogue about the consequences of actions on the environment, emphasizing cause and effect through examples in the book and in real life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: The protagonist, Willodeen, demonstrates deep empathy for creatures others deem unimportant or peculiar, showing kindness towards them.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the value of all living beings, fostering a compassionate attitude towards others, regardless of their differences.
Example Lesson: Environmental consciousness
Explanation: The story underscores the importance of ecological balance and the consequences of human actions on nature through Willodeen’s connection with her surroundings.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be mindful of their impact on the environment, promoting actions like recycling, conservation, and respect for wildlife.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Willodeen faces various challenges throughout the book, yet her resilience and determination help her overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to persist through difficulties, understanding that perseverance is key to overcoming challenges.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity and questioning
Explanation: Willodeen’s curious nature leads her to explore and question the world around her, which is crucial for discovering truths and learning.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to stay curious and question the world around them, which can lead to important discoveries and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship and collaboration
Explanation: Throughout the story, Willodeen develops meaningful relationships that play critical roles in the narrative, illustrating the strength found in collaboration.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of building and maintaining friendships, and how teamwork can help solve problems that seem insurmountable alone.