Sometimes a Wall

PreS-Gr 1–In this idealistic and touching tale, a group of friends discover the power of choosing kindness and empathy. Readers are introduced to the “many ways a wall can be,” initially presented in physical forms with young children playfully enjoying a water wall and climbing wall. The children then come together to build a castle. As the walls come up, their height mirrors the opportunity for selfishness and other bad behaviors. One character takes this to the extreme and proclaims the castle “MINE,” turning everyone else away. The walls take on a more metaphorical state as the lone castle resident begins to feel isolated and remorseful. The larger group of children decide to colorfully redefine the wall and generously include everyone, even the one who had shut them out. The simple rhyming text allows space for reflection about the array of emotions expressed by the children. There are opportunities to discuss what it feels like to be excluded or treated unfairly. The loose line illustrations reinforce the concept that walls are open to interpretation, and intention is what makes them unite or divide.