by Kevin Henkes
review by Carol Smith
As children get ready for school, some for the very first time, this book, Chrysanthemum, by Kevin Henkes, is a great discussion starter for families, K-3 children and teachers.
Chrysanthemum is the name given to a little girl mouse at her birth. Her parents thought it was the perfect name for their new baby. As Chrysanthemum grew, she too, loved her name. She loved the way it sounded and looked written out on paper.
She was looking forward to the day she would start kindergarten. That feeling soon changed when she was confronted with teasing and unkind remarks about her name were made by her classmates. From the length of the name, and the fact that it was a flower, to other unkind words, it made Chrysanthemum feel horrible. She wanted a shorter name and a different name. She no longer loved her name …. until the class met the new music teacher. The students loved this teacher and were surprised to learn that she also had a flower name. This discovery made things change for Chrysanthemum, and school life became much more enjoyable.
Discussion Possibilities
Talk about respect for others and how unkind teasing can hurt other people’s feelings. Discuss that when we appreciate others, everyone feels accepted and happier.
Point out that we are all different, but we all bring special ideas and uniqueness to a classroom. There is no need to tease or hurt others because of how they may look, sound, or act differently.
Help your child think of ways they could respond if a classmate is being teased. What can they do or say, and then what would they do next to help that friend.?
Scriptural Reflection
Read the following scripture with your child, with emphasis on the bold section. Discuss how God loves all people and asks that we do the same.
Romans 12:10-16
New International Version
10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in
hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who
rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not beproud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. [a] Do not be conceited.
Activities
Cut a large paper heart for your child from thinner paper. Reread the book again having your child crumple part of the heart each time Chrysanthemum’s feelings are hurt by something mean the students say or do. At the end of the story, when the heart is completely crumpled, have your child try to smooth out the wrinkles. Note how the heart looks now. Suggest it is like when someone says something mean or hurts another’s feeling and it hurts his or her heart, meaning it makes that person
feel sad.
Make paper tube binoculars. Decorate them and label them “respect seekers.” Have your child use them to watch for acts or words that show respect for others. Use them around home, while watching TV, reading another book, or in the neighborhood.