Up High
Seeking security and a better view of the city while walking through a busy street, a little boy asks his dad to lift him onto his shoulders, where the world that once felt so big and overwhelming suddenly transforms into an exciting and accessible wonder. When they arrive at their destination, however, he takes in the world below and beside him, and marvels at how he had felt so small, and now relates to a giant! Whether soaking in the world above or appreciating the small details below, this heartfelt book about a father and son takes the reader’s experience to new heights. When making your list of books to check out at your local library, be sure to put this one up high! Special note: This book includes a QR code on the back where readers can click and listen to an audio reading of the book!
Pennsylvania Center for the Book Awards
Book Activities & Discussion Ideas
Fold a piece of paper in half and label the top half “up high” and the bottom half “down low.” Independently or as a group, children can brainstorm, share, and draw things that they might see from each perspective. Following this activity, take a walk outdoors, and pause to look high and low to add to the list! Are there things that children and adults don’t always notice day to day, that they see when pausing and taking time to look?
Pause for adults and children to reflect on times when they have felt small in a big place. This book is a quiet celebration of love and security. Adults can serve as readers, as well as listeners and learners, as children share their thoughts on what is happening in the story. While reading, adults can take time to pause and look up high, and down low with their child, asking what they see around them. This is a great opportunity to hear about the world through the eyes of a child.