Picture books for curious kids

Read-Aloud Questions for Parents & Educators

Every Little Wonders Library book ends with something to talk about. Here are a few open-ended questions for each title. There are no wrong answers. Fuller discussion guides will be added as each book is completed.

Read-aloud tips

  • Pause before the page turn and ask, “What do you think will happen?”
  • Let the pictures do some of the talking: there's always something small to spot on a second read.
  • Pick one question, not all three. A short chat is plenty.
Ronald Moy writing in a small notebook while walking along a sunny path

Conversation questions by story

The Smallest Thing in the Garden

Ages 4–7

  1. What is one small thing that makes a big difference in your day?
  2. Why do you think Grandma June asked what was doing the biggest job, instead of what was biggest?
  3. What could you notice in a garden or park if you watched one small creature for a while?

The Umbrella Named Captain Blue

Ages 4–7

  1. What helps you try something when you feel nervous?
  2. Is it possible to feel scared and brave at the same time?
  3. What did Benny imagine to help himself keep going?

The Day the Sidewalk Started Talking

Ages 5–8

  1. What question would help you get to know a new neighbor?
  2. Why do you think the first message asked what made you smile?
  3. How could you help someone new feel welcome?

Grandpa's Pocketful of Stars

Ages 4–8

  1. What little moment would you put in your pocket today?
  2. Is it okay to have a hard day and still find one good moment?
  3. What “star” could you give to someone in your family?

The Library Door That Wasn't There Yesterday

Ages 5–8

  1. If you found a secret library door, where would it lead?
  2. Why do you think the door disappeared?
  3. If you made your own door with a story behind it, what would be on the other side?

The Boy Who Saved His Questions

Ages 5–8

  1. What's one question you'd like to investigate?
  2. How do you think Eli felt when people kept saying “later”?
  3. Where could you look for the answer to a question you have?

Luna's Very Loud Quiet Day

Ages 4–7

  1. What sound can you notice right now?
  2. Besides sounds, what else can you notice when you slow down?
  3. Which of the things on Luna's list would you most like to find?

Nori and the Not-Quite-Perfect Kite

Ages 5–8

  1. What have you made that didn't go exactly as planned?
  2. Why do you think Nori felt embarrassed at first?
  3. What makes something you made special, even if it isn't perfect?

The Last Peach on Willow Street

Ages 5–8

  1. What could you and a friend make better by working together?
  2. Why do you think Jamie and Sofia stopped arguing?
  3. What could grow from something small that you share?

The Night the Moon Followed Me Home

Ages 4–7

  1. What do you notice in the sky on your way home?
  2. Why do you think the moon seems to follow us?
  3. What would you whisper to the moon tonight?

Read-aloud stories on YouTube

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