Which of Tanya's or Sophie's poems did you relate to the most and why?

This is a discussion prompt for All We Needed to Say by Marilyn Singer. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

How do Tanya and Sophie feel differently about the same things at school? Why do you think they have different opinions?

This is a discussion prompt for All We Needed to Say by Marilyn Singer. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

What's your favorite part of the school day? If you wrote a poem about it, what would you say?

This is a discussion prompt for All We Needed to Say by Marilyn Singer. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Can you think of a time you and a friend had different feelings about the same activity?

This is a discussion prompt for All We Needed to Say by Marilyn Singer. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

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All We Needed to Say

Name: All We Needed to Say
ISBN: 9780689806674

by Marilyn Singer

Through a collection of delightful poems, Tanya and Sophie offer their unique and often differing perspectives on the daily joys and challenges of school life, from gym class to library hour.

About This Book

This charming collection of poems introduces readers to Tanya and Sophie, two girls who experience school in their own distinct ways. Each poem explores a different aspect of the school day, such as gym class or library hour, with Tanya and Sophie often expressing contrasting opinions. It's a wonderful way to open conversations with children about how different people can feel differently about the same experiences, fostering empathy and understanding. The verse format makes it engaging for a wide age range, encouraging discussions about individual perspectives and the nuances of friendship.

A collection of poems in which two girls, Tanya and Sophie, express their differing opinions on gym class, library hour, and other aspects of a day at school.

Concepts

Friendship & Loyalty Self-Confidence & Identity Empathy & Kindness Curiosity & Wonder Anger & Frustration Joy & Gratitude Being Different Making Friends School Life Friendship & Social

Wonderlit Review

All We Needed to Say is a delightful collection of poems that offers a unique look into the everyday experiences of school through the eyes of two distinct characters, Tanya and Sophie. The book presents various aspects of school life, such as gym class and library hour, with each girl expressing her individual thoughts and feelings in verse. This dual perspective is handled gently, highlighting that it's normal and healthy for friends to have different opinions and preferences. The emotional arc is generally light and reflective, focusing on the nuances of personal experience rather than heavy conflict. This book is particularly well-suited for children who are navigating social dynamics, starting school, or simply enjoy poetry. It can be a wonderful tool for parents and educators to open conversations about empathy, understanding different viewpoints, and validating a child's own feelings about their school day. There are no sensitive topics or scenes requiring preview; the book's tone is consistently warm and inviting. Younger children (4-7) will enjoy the rhythm and rhyme, and can discuss the simple differences between the girls. Older children (8-11) can delve deeper into the themes of perspective-taking, self-expression, and how friendships accommodate individuality. What sets this book apart is its direct use of contrasting poetic voices to explore a universal childhood experience, making it a relatable and engaging read for many.