Category: Reading Activities

Reading Activities: The Glass Pyramid: A Story of the Louvre Museum and Architect I.M. Pei

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The Glass Pyramid: A Story of the Louvre Museum and Architect I.M. Pei
Author: Jeanne Walker Harvey
Illustrator: Khoa Le
27 May 2025
Atheneum Books for Young Readers
40 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “In 1981, I. M. Pei was on a mission. A successful architect known for his modern designs, Pei was asked by the French president to redesign the Louvre Museum in Paris, home to the Mona Lisa and now famous for the glass pyramid at its center. At the time, the Louvre had many problems and no pyramid.

Pei faced many obstacles, including discrimination because he was Chinese American. Determined to succeed and make the Louvre a welcome place for all, Pei worked hard—and sometimes in secret. This is the story of a visionary who worked patiently and persistently to solve problems and achieve his to plant and grow a glass pyramid.”

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Reading Activities inspired by The Glass Pyramid:

  • Before Reading–From looking at the front cover: 
    • What might the title The Glass Pyramid suggest about what’s inside?
    • What shapes and patterns stand out most on the cover? What do they make you think of?
    • The book shows both an old museum and a modern pyramid. How do you think those two things might fit together?
    • What do you already know (or wonder) about the Louvre Museum or the artist I.M. Pei?
    • What questions would you like to ask the author or illustrator before reading the book?
  • After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story: 
    • What problem was I.M. Pei asked to solve, and how did his design address it?
    • What parts of his childhood or heritage influenced his ideas for the pyramid?
    • How did Pei respond when people criticized or doubted his plan
    • What do you notice about how the illustrator balanced old and new throughout the pages?
    • What message about creativity or persistence do you think the author wants readers to remember?
    • If you could ask I.M. Pei one question about his work, what would it be?
  • Design Your Own Landmark: Imagine you’re an architect like I.M. Pei. Choose a famous place that feels too crowded or confusing. On blank paper, sketch a new entrance or structure that could make it better. Label the materials you’d use and explain what inspired your design.
  • Light & Reflection Experiment: The Louvre pyramid is all about glass and light. Using a flashlight, mirror, or window, explore how light changes when it hits different materials—clear plastic, foil, colored cellophane. What patterns or reflections do you see?
  • Shape Scavenger Hunt: Walk around your home or classroom and find shapes that repeat in Pei’s architecture—triangles, squares, and diamonds. Take photos or draw what you find. Which shape seems most powerful to you?
  • Letter to a Visionary:
    Write a short note to I.M. Pei thanking him for something you learned from his story. What lesson from his life could help you face your own challenges?
  • Bridge of Cultures Collage: Pei connected Eastern and Western ideas through his design. Create a collage with magazine images or digital art showing two styles—old vs. modern, natural vs. man-made—and find a way to blend them into one harmonious picture.
  • Books, Books, and More Books! Check out these picture-​book biographies that celebrate design, creativity, and problem-solving:

 

Dreaming Up: A Celebration of Building by Christy Hale
A poetry-​plus-​photography celebration linking kids’ building play to real architecture.
The inspiring journey of Mae Jemison, whose persistence lifted her all the way to space.
Prairie Boy: Frank Lloyd Wright Turns the Heartland into a Home by Barb Rosenstock, illustrated by Christopher Silas Neal
A lyrical portrait of young Frank Lloyd Wright, whose love of prairie light and open spaces shaped the way he imagined buildings forever.
A joyful story about creativity, courage, and finding your own shade of inspiration.
The World Is Not a Rectangle: A Portrait of Architect Zaha Hadid by Jeanette Winter
An engaging look at how an Iraqi-​born woman re-​imagined what buildings could be.

Reading Activities: The Truth About Dragons by Julie Leung, illustrated by Hanna Cha

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The Truth About Dragons
Author: Julie Leung
Illustrator: Hanna Cha
13 August 2023
Henry Holt and Co. Books for Young Readers
40 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “An unforgettable lyrical picture book that celebrates biracial identity from the award-​winning author of Paper The Inspiring Story of Tyrus Wong, Immigrant and Artist.

Lean in close,
my darling bao bei,
and I will whisper
a most precious secret
about a powerful magic
that lives inside you.

Brought to life with lavish and ornate illustrations, The Truth About Dragons follows a young child on a journey guided by his mother’s bedtime storytelling. He quests into two very different forests, as his two grandmothers help him discover two different, but equally enchanting, truths about dragons.

Eastern and Western mythologies coexist and enrich each other in this warm celebration of mixed cultural identity.”

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Reading Activities inspired by The Truth About Dragons:

  • Before Reading–From looking at the front cover: 
    • What do you notice about the two different dragons on the cover? How are they alike or different?
    • Why do you think the title is The Truth About Dragons? What kind of truth might the book explore?
    • What do the trees, sky, and mountains in the background suggest about where the story takes place?
    • What feelings do the colors on the cover give you?
    • What questions would you like to ask the author or illustrator before reading the book?
  • After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story: 
    • What are the two worlds the boy travels between? How does he feel in each one?
    • How do the two dragons reflect different parts of the boy’s identity?
    • What does the fire inside represent for him?
    • Have you ever felt like you had to choose between two sides of yourself? What helped you figure it out?
    • Why do you think the author chose dragons to tell this story?
    • What does the ending suggest about the boy’s journey and how he sees himself now?
  • Dragon Duo Drawing: The boy meets two dragons, one from each of his worlds. Draw your own version of each dragon. What colors, powers, or personalities do they have? Add labels or speech bubbles to bring them to life.
  • Bridge Between Worlds: The story shows a bridge between the boy’s two worlds. Fold a piece of paper in half. On one side, draw or write about one part of your identity, like your family, culture, or language. On the other side, draw or write about another. Then create a bridge in the middle that connects them. What do you carry across?
  • Dragon Flame Poem: “There’s a fire that burns inside me,” the boy says. Write a short poem about your own inner flame. What makes you strong, creative, or unique? You can shape your poem like a flame or a dragon tail if you want.
  • Truth Teller Mask: The dragons help the boy speak his truth. Make your own truth-​teller mask with paper, string, or a paper plate. Use colors and patterns that show who you are. On the back, write one sentence about something true and important to you.
  • Family Fire Storytime: Sit with a family member and ask them to tell you a story from their past, something they’ve never shared before. Then retell it in your own words, adding dragon-​like details to turn it into a magical tale.
  • Books, Books, and More Books! Check out these real-​world picture books about identity, culture, and embracing all the parts of who you are:

Eyes That Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho, illustrated by Dung Ho
A lyrical celebration of Asian identity, family connection, and seeing beauty in yourself.

The Many Colors of Harpreet Singh by Supriya Kelkar, illustrated by Alea Marley
A gentle story about a boy who expresses his feelings through color while adjusting to a new place.

My Two Border Towns by David Bowles, illustrated by Erika Meza
A touching story of a boy who moves between two countries and learns the power of community and care.

Nana Akua Goes to School by Tricia Elam Walker, illustrated by April Harrison
Zura’s grandmother shares a cultural tradition that at first seems different—but turns out to be a gift.

Where Are You From? by Yamile Saied Méndez, illustrated by Jaime Kim
A moving conversation between a girl and her abuelo about where she comes from and who she is..

Reading Activities: Shark Girl by Kate Beaton

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Shark Girl
Author: Kate Beaton
Illustrator: Kate Beaton
25 February 2025
Roaring Brook Press
48 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “When Shark Girl is captured by an evil fishing captain’s net, she makes a vow… for REVENGE!

With the sea witch’s help, Shark Girl becomes a human sailor and launches a plan… for MUTINY!

But Shark Girl needs the help of her crew mates before she can enact her plan. Will Shark girl SINK… or SWIM?

Bestselling creator Kate Beaton has created a subversive and hilarious spin on the classic little mermaid fairy tale that will inspire little readers to seek their own revenge on behalf of justice!”

Need some reviews of Shark Girl?

Reading Activities inspired by Shark Girl:

  • Before Reading–From looking at the front cover: 
    • What words come to mind when you think about fireworks?
    • What do you notice first about Shark Girl’s appearance? How is she the same as—or different from—a typical mermaid?
    • The word shark can feel scary; how does the art make Shark Girl seem friendly, fierce, or both?
    • Where do you think this story takes place—deep in the ocean, on a ship, or somewhere else? What clues help you decide?
    • If you could ask Shark Girl one question before opening the book, what would it be?
    • The tagline says she’s “part shark and part human.” What challenges or adventures might that create?
    • Look at the background colors and shapes. What mood do they set for the story you’re about to read?
  • After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story: 
    • What makes Captain Barrett’s fishing practices harmful to the ocean?
    • Why does Shark Girl think revenge is the answer at first—and what changes her mind?
    • How does the crew react to Shark Girl over time? What helps them become allies?
    • Where do you see humor in the artwork or dialogue, even during tense moments?
    • The sea witch “lives for drama.” How does this character move the plot forward?
    • What panels or spreads were the most exciting or surprising? Why?
    • What does the ending teach about teamwork and ethical choices?
  • Sea-​Change Comic Strip
    Using six small panels, retell a key moment—Shark Girl breaking the net, meeting the sea witch, or launching the mutiny. Add “sound-​word” effects like SNAP! or WHOOSH! and bright colors to match Kate Beaton’s comic style.
  • Captain’s Catch: Sustainable or Not?
    Draw two buckets. Label one Overfishing and the other Ethical Catch. Cut out or sketch different sea creatures (tuna, shark, sea turtle, etc.). Research (or guess together) which catches are sustainable and place them in the right bucket. Discuss why some choices protect the ocean better than others.
  • Shark Teeth Smile Masks
    Fold cardboard or heavy paper into a half-​mask that covers just the mouth. Cut zig-​zag “shark teeth,” paint it ocean-​blue, and attach string to wear. Practice three Shark Girl expressions: determined, surprised, and triumphant. What emotions do those pointy teeth show?
  • Mutiny Map
    On a big sheet, draw the ship Jellyfish and the crew. Plan your own (kinder!) mutiny: list five changes you’d make to help the ocean—maybe recycling on board or rescuing bycatch. Illustrate each change with simple icons or mini-scenes.
  • Sea-​Witch Bargain Jar
    Decorate a clear jar with sea colors and glitter. Write small “promises to the planet” on scraps of paper—use less plastic, pick up beach litter, learn about sharks. Each time you fulfill a promise, add a shell, bead, or pebble to the jar until it sparkles like magic.
  • Books, Books, and More Books! Check out these real-​world picture books about ocean wonders, identity, and standing up for what’s right:

 

The Brilliant Deep: Rebuilding the World’s Coral Reefs by Kate Messner, illustrated by Matthew Forsythe
The true story of Ken Nedimyer, who sparked a movement to restore damaged coral—showing kids that one person’s passion can help the sea thrive.

 

Flotsam by David Wiesner
A wordless seaside adventure where a mysterious camera reveals hidden ocean life—perfect for sparking curiosity about underwater worlds.

 

Julián Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love
After seeing dazzling mermaids on the subway, Julián dreams of being one too—and finds loving acceptance in his abuela’s embrace.

 

Swashby and the Sea by Beth Ferry, illustrated by Juana Martinez-​Neal
A salty sea captain thinks he prefers solitude, until a lively girl and the ocean itself nudge him toward friendship.

 

Thank You, Earth: A Love Letter to Our Planet by April Pulley Sayre
Stunning photographs and poetic lines create a heartfelt “thank-​you letter” to our planet, inviting readers to notice and protect nature.

Reading Activities: Chalk the Walk by Chelsea Tornetto, illustrated by Laurel Aylesworth

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Chalk the Walk
Author: Chelsea Tornetto
Illustrator: Laurel Aylesworth
1 April 2025
Familius
32 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “Take to the sidewalk with this colorful picture book to inspire artistic expression and imagination!

Faded pavement.
Walls of gray.
Boring city streets?
No way!

Grab a piece of sidewalk chalk and join in the fun! Join a pair of adorable siblings as they explore the incredible power of a piece of chalk to transform the world around them. Joined by people of all ages from their neighborhood along the way, they use their bucket of chalk to make some sidewalk magic. With rhyming text by Chelsea Tornetto and increasingly colorful illustrations by Laurel Aylesworth, Chalk the Walk is a celebration of imagination.”

Need some reviews of Chalk the Walk?

As a special bonus, here’s an interview with the author at Sue Irwin’s website. Enjoy!

Reading Activities inspired by Chalk the Walk:

  • Before Reading–From looking at the front cover: 
    • What do you think this book will be about?
    • What kinds of things can you do with sidewalk chalk?
    • Have you ever made art that others could see in your neighborhood?
    • How do the colors on the cover make you feel?
    • What questions would you like to ask the author or illustrator before reading the book?
  • After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story: 
    • How do the children change the neighborhood with their chalk drawings?
    • Why do you think people were inspired to join in the fun?
    • What happens to the chalk art at the end of the story, and how do the characters react?
    • How does the book compare chalk to screen time?
    • What are some ways you’ve made your own fun without using screens?
    • Would you recommend this book to a friend? What part would you tell them about first?
  • Chalk It Forward
    The children in the story start a wave of creativity by drawing with chalk and it spreads to the whole community! Try it yourself: make a cheerful message or simple drawing on the sidewalk or driveway (with permission, of course). You might just brighten someone’s day or inspire a neighbor to add something of their own.
  • Color Our World
    In the book, dull gray spaces slowly fill with bright color. On a piece of paper, draw a scene in all grays. Then color in only one section. Maybe a balloon, a flower, or a chalk drawing. How does that pop of color change the mood? Try doing a second version where everything is bright.
  • Sidewalk Storytelling
    Use chalk to create your own story across several sidewalk squares or blocks. Each square can be a different part of your story: the beginning, the middle, and the end. Invite a friend to read your story as they walk!
  • Screen-​Free Saturday
    Plan a whole day of screen-​free fun, inspired by this book. Make a list of things you can do: build with blocks, play dress-​up, read a book, draw with chalk, make a snack, or put on a puppet show. Can you go the whole day without using a tablet or TV?
  • Books, Books, and More Books!
    Check out these real-​world picture books about creativity, outdoor fun, and screen-​free play:

 

Chalk by Bill Thomson

A wordless picture book where chalk drawings come to life…until things get a little too real!

Hello Hello by Brendan Wenzel

This visually dazzling book celebrates connection, color, and noticing the world around you. No screens needed!

On a Magical Do-​Nothing Day by Beatrice Alemagna

A rainy day and a bored child lead to a magical outdoor adventure.

Sidewalk Flowers by JonArno Lawson, illustrated by Sydney Smith

In this wordless story, a girl collects flowers on a city walk, quietly transforming her world with small acts of kindness.

Sidewalk Chalk by Jen Fier Jasinski, illustrated by Lea Marie Ravotti

From the publisher: “Imaginations soar when a group of neighborhood children scritch, scribble and scrawl in a rainbow of colors, crafting lovely works of art. But one little girl watches from afar, unsure how to contribute her own colorful creations. After gathering her courage, she misses the chance to grab the last piece, until a familiar face shows her how to draw with nature’s chalk — a soft piece of rock. But then raindrops begin to fall and time is cut short, causing the lovely colors to fade into memories. In the morning, a new day begins, and the girl leads the way in welcoming a new friend to this creative community.”

This one’s not out yet, but go ahead and preorder it!

Reading Activities: Are You a Friend of Dorothy? by Kyle Luckoff, illustrated by Levi Hastings

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Are You a Friend of Dorothy?
Author: Kyle Lukoff
Illustrator: Levi Hastings
29 April 2025
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
40 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “In a time when the LGBTQ+ community was forced to hide in the shadows, a woman named Dorothy helped her people find each other in the dark and celebrate themselves in the light.

But who was Dorothy? Was she from the neighborhood, someone’s wife, mother, or sister? Was she that clever writer, who threw parties where there were no rules about who you could and couldn’t dance with? Or was she a girl from Kansas, who dreamed of leaving her black-​and-​white, small-​town life and finding a vibrant, colorful world that loved her?

Dorothy might have been all these things—because Dorothy, as known by the post-​WWII queer community, wasn’t real. Still, she helped a community find connection and care amidst adversity.”

Need some reviews of Are You a Friend of Dorothy?

Reading Activities inspired by Are You a Friend of Dorothy?:

  • Before Reading–From looking at the front cover: 
    • What do you notice first when you look at the cover?

    • What do you think the title means? Who or what might “Dorothy” refer to?

    • What mood or feeling do the colors and art style give you?

    • Who do you think this book might be about? What clues helped you decide

    • If you could ask the character on the cover a question, what would it be?

  • After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story: 
    • What did the phrase “Are you a friend of Dorothy?” help people do?
    • Why do you think people had to hide their true selves in the past
    • How does the illustrator show community and connection in the pictures?
    • What are some ways the book blends fact and imagination?
    • How has life changed for LGBTQ+ people since the time this story takes place—and what challenges still remain?
    • What message do you think the author wants young readers to take away?
    • Would you recommend this book to a friend? Why or why not?
  • Code Words & Connection Collage
    Make a collage about what it means to belong. Use magazines, drawings, stickers, or digital images to show places, people, or ideas that help you feel seen and safe. Add a secret symbol or word that only someone “in the know” would understand (just like the friends of Dorothy).
  • Rainbow Timeline
    This story looks at a real part of LGBTQ+ history. Create a visual timeline that starts with the phrase “Are you a friend of Dorothy?” and ends with the Pride celebrations we know today. Include moments from the book and add your own ideas or research about important LGBTQ+ events.
  • Dorothy Who? Detective Game
    The book offers different guesses about who Dorothy might’ve been. Choose one—Dorothy Gale, Dorothy Parker, or another idea—and create a mini case file. Draw clues, write a short “report,” or make a wanted poster that shows why your choice could be the true Dorothy.
  • Color Outside the Lines
    The illustrations in this book are bold and expressive, with vibrant colors that tell a story. Choose one page you love and recreate it using your own color choices or art style. What mood or message are you showing through your choices?
  • Secret Signals Station
    Come up with your own set of signals to say things without using words. You might use hand signs, symbols, or invented phrases. Practice with a friend or family member—can they figure out what your signals mean?
  • Books, Books, and More Books!
    Check out these real-​world picture books about identity, community, and the power of finding your people:

 

All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold, illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman

A warm, inclusive classroom shows how differences are celebrated and everyone belongs.

Big by Vashti Harrison

This powerful story explores how others see us—and how we learn to see ourselves—with beauty, empathy, and strength.

Julián Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love

After seeing women dressed as mermaids, Julián explores his identity and finds love and acceptance in his abuela’s response.

Love, Violet by Charlotte Sullivan Wild, illustrated by Charlene Chua

A tender LGBTQ+ love story about a girl finding the courage to express her feelings to the one she admires most.

Our Subway Baby by Peter Mercurio, illustrated by Leo Espinosa

A true story about family, love, and how an adopted baby brought two dads—and a community—together.

Reading Activities: Fireworks by Matthew Burgess, illustrated by Cátia Chien

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Fireworks
Author: Matthew Burgess
Illustrator: Cátia Chien
13 May 2025
Clarion Books
44 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “POP! As a hot day sizzles into evening, everyone on stoops and sidewalks looks skyward on this special summer night—the Fourth of July! Words and art blossom into flowers of fire across the sky, making this a perfect read for firework enthusiasts in cities and suburbs everywhere. POP! POP!”

Need some reviews of Fireworks?

As a special bonus, here’s a page at the author’s website which has a book trailer for this book, along with multiple interior pages. Enjoy!

www.matthewjohnburgess.com/fireworks

Reading Activities inspired by Fireworks:

  • Before Reading–From looking at the front cover: 
    • What words come to mind when you think about fireworks?
    • What time of year do you think this book takes place? What makes you think that?
    • Do you enjoy loud celebrations, or do you prefer quiet ones? Why?
    • What do you notice about the art style on the cover? How does it make you feel?
    • What questions would you like to ask the author or illustrator before reading the book?
  • After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story: 
    • What are some of the things the children do while waiting for the fireworks?
    • How does the author use sounds in the text to make the day come alive?
    • How does the illustrator show the heat of the day? What changes when night falls?
    • What moment felt the most exciting to you? Why?
    • What do you think the characters mean when they say they’re “tucked in with summer on our skin”?
    • What made the rooftop fireworks feel so special after such a busy day?
    • Would you like to spend a day like this? Why or why not?
    • Would you recommend this book to a friend? What part would you tell them about first?
  • Rooftop View Drawing
    The children in Fireworks climb to their rooftop to see the sky light up. Imagine you’re doing the same. What would your rooftop view look like—buildings, bridges, trees, birds, stars? Use crayons, pastels, or paint to create your own “rooftop moment,” just before the first firework explodes.
  • Boom! Pop! Swish!: Sound Words Game
    This book is filled with onomatopoeia—words that sound like the thing they describe. Make a list of all the sound words you remember from the story. Then come up with your own sound words for other things: splashing in a pool, biting into a Popsicle, or jumping on the sidewalk. Can your friends guess what you’re describing just from the sounds?
  • City Summer Scavenger Hunt
    Make a list of small details the book celebrates—like a fire hydrant spray, a saxophone, the smell of something cooking, or bright pink flip-​flops. Then go outside with an adult and try to spot your own version of a city summer. Take photos or draw what you find and label them with your own poetic lines.
  • Watermelon Words
    One of the best parts of the day in Fireworks is sitting down to eat sweet, juicy watermelon. Pretend you’re writing a poem just about that one moment. How does it taste? Feel? Sound? Smell? Use sensory words and bright colors to create a “watermelon moment” poem or mini book.
  • Music in the Air: Dance Story
    In the park, the kids hear music and can’t help but dance. Think of a song that makes you want to move. Create a short story or comic showing a character dancing through the city. Where do they go? Who do they see? Let the rhythm lead the way!
  • Books, Books, and More Books! Check out these real-​world picture books that celebrate summer, city life, and the joy of everyday magic:

 

 

Apple Pie Fourth of July by Janet S. Wong, illustrated by Margaret Chodos-​Irvine

While her parents cook Chinese food in their store, a girl worries it doesn’t belong on the Fourth of July…until fireworks and apple pie help her see things differently.

 

 

Carmela Full of Wishes by Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Christian Robinson

On her birthday, Carmela explores her neighborhood and collects wishes. It’s a quiet, reflective city story about noticing details and finding joy in small things.

 

 

Hot Day on Abbott Avenue by Karen English, illustrated by Javaka Steptoe

Two best friends spend a sweltering summer day not speaking to each other. Then the games begin and the heat melts more than just the pavement.

 

My Chinatown: One Year in Poemsby Kam Mak

Through a series of seasonal poems, a boy reflects on his new life in Chinatown. It’s a powerful mix of city life, cultural identity, and lyrical beauty.


Water in the Park by Emily Jenkins, illustrated by Stephanie Graegin

A tender and observant look at one day in a city park, hour by hour.