The Smeds and the Smoos
By Julia Donaldson
What's special about this book?
Imagine a vibrant world where red Smeds and blue Smoos have never mingled, until young Janet and Bill dare to challenge tradition with their love. Kids will be captivated by the delightful illustrations and the playful rhymes, while parents and educators will appreciate how 'The Smeds and the Smoos' gently teaches the importance of acceptance and celebrating differences. This charming tale not only brings families together but also showcases how love can create beautiful new beginnings, like Janet and Bill's precious purple baby.
Read-aloud tips
Set the mood by reading 'The Smeds and the Smoos' in a cozy corner, perhaps with some colorful cushions to mimic the vibrant world of the characters. Use expressive voices for Janet and Bill, with a playful tone for their families to highlight the contrasting emotions of disapproval and love. Encourage your child to join in by making sound effects for the characters or suggesting what color the baby might be next, sparking their imagination and making the experience lively and interactive.
Discussion questions
- What colors are the Smeds and the Smoos, and how do they differ?
- Have you ever had a friend that your family didn't approve of? How did that make you feel?
- If you were to create a new color representing a friendship between two different groups, what would it be and why?
Fun activities
After reading 'The Smeds and the Smoos', gather some crayons or markers and invite your child to create their own colorful character representing friendship. Discuss what colors they choose and why, emphasizing how blending different colors can create something beautiful, just like Janet and Bill's purple baby. Additionally, you can play a simple game where each person takes turns sharing what makes them unique, helping to reinforce the book's message about embracing differences and finding common ground.