About This Book
Kevin Henkes's 'The Zebra Wall' is a poignant and humorous chapter book for children aged 4-11, focusing on ten-year-old Adine's experience with significant family changes. When her mother has a new baby, Adine's bedroom is suddenly occupied by her eccentric Aunt Irene, leading to a period of intense adjustment. The story gently explores Adine's feelings of displacement, frustration, and eventual understanding, offering a realistic portrayal of sibling rivalry, adapting to new living situations, and learning to appreciate unique family members. It's a wonderful read for sparking conversations about empathy, resilience, and the evolving nature of family bonds.
Discussion Prompts
1
How does Adine feel about the new baby at different points in the story? Have you ever felt that way about a new sibling or big change?
2
What are some of the things that make Aunt Irene eccentric? How does Adine learn to understand or appreciate her?
3
How does Adine's bedroom, and specifically the 'zebra wall,' represent her feelings throughout the book?
4
What does Adine learn about herself and her family by the end of the story?
5
If you were Adine, what would be the hardest part of having a new baby and Aunt Irene staying in your room?
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