What does it mean to be a good friend to animals?

This is a discussion prompt for Helping Hands by Laurie Halse Anderson. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

What would you do if you saw an animal that looked like it needed help?

This is a discussion prompt for Helping Hands by Laurie Halse Anderson. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Why is it important to speak up when you see something wrong?

This is a discussion prompt for Helping Hands by Laurie Halse Anderson. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Find on Bookshop.org Find on Amazon

Helping Hands

Name: Helping Hands
ISBN: 9781484402191

by Laurie Halse Anderson

When Vet Volunteers Jules and Josh notice ponies at a sidewalk sale look unhealthy, they must step in to investigate potential animal mistreatment.

About This Book

When their parents hire ponies to draw customers to their sidewalk sale, Jules and Josh are excited, but when the Vet Volunteers notice that the ponies don't seem healthy, they suspect that they have been mistreated.

Concepts

Empathy & Kindness Justice & Fairness Teamwork & Collaboration Love & Family Resilience & Perseverance Family & Siblings

Heads up, parents

animal_harm

Wonderlit Review

In 'Helping Hands,' siblings Jules and Josh become concerned when they notice the ponies hired for their parents' sidewalk sale appear unhealthy. Teaming up with the 'Vet Volunteers,' they investigate the situation, suspecting mistreatment. The book gently introduces the topic of animal welfare and the importance of advocating for creatures in need. It models proactive behavior and teamwork in addressing a problem. The emotional arc moves from concern to hopeful resolution, providing a comforting narrative for young animal lovers. This book is ideal for children who are developing empathy for animals or showing an interest in veterinary care. Parents might reach for this when their child expresses concern about an animal's well-being or to open a conversation about responsibility towards pets and animals. The topic of animal mistreatment is handled with care, focusing on the children's efforts to help rather than graphic details. Younger readers (ages 4-6) will enjoy it as a read-aloud, while early elementary children (7-10) can read it independently and engage with the problem-solving aspect. It stands out by combining a relatable sibling dynamic with a clear focus on animal advocacy.