Description
Shh! We Have a Plan (Board Book)
Book Summary
A group of four characters creeps through the forest, armed with a butterfly net. Their goal is to catch a small bird, and to do so, they move stealthily and in complete silence. However, the smallest of the group has a different idea: instead of catching the bird, he prefers to offer it something to eat. This board book, by renowned author Chris Haughton, is a fun and tender story about perseverance, empathy, and the importance of trying alternative methods to connect with others.
What is it about?
Four characters, three adults and one child, walk through the forest with a butterfly net. Upon spotting a little bird, the adults initiate a meticulous plan: move slowly, in silence, and without making a sound to capture it. They repeat the same strategy over and over, but the bird always manages to escape. Meanwhile, the smallest character observes the scene and, instead of following the plan, attempts a completely different approach: offering a crumb of bread to the bird. The story unfolds with a repetitive rhythm and visual humor that underscores the difference between insisting on a failed method and being open to new forms of interaction.
Main Themes
- Perseverance in the face of failure and the need to change strategy.
- Empathy and non-violent communication as an alternative to imposition.
- The contrast between the rigidity of adults and the spontaneous creativity of children.
- Humor based on repetition and the anticipation of the characters' actions.
- Exploration of nature and respect for animals.
Who is it recommended for?
This book is especially recommended for children from 1 year old, thanks to its sturdy board book format and its vivid, contrasting illustrations. It is also ideal for parents, educators, and reading mediators looking for a title that encourages reflection on problem-solving, empathy, and the importance of listening to other perspectives. Its repetitive and predictable structure makes it an excellent resource for shared reading aloud.
What this book offers
- A visual and minimalist narrative that stimulates observation and anticipation in little ones.
- A subtle lesson on the effectiveness of kindness and cooperation versus imposition.
- A sturdy and manageable board book design, ideal for small hands and first independent reading.
- An interactive reading experience that invites readers to imitate the characters' gestures and sounds.
- A story that promotes reflection on how we relate to others and the environment.
Technical Specifications
- Author: Haughton, Chris
- Publisher: NubeOcho
- Language: Spanish
- Subject: PICTURE BOOKS, ACTIVITY AND SUBJECT BOOKS, ILLUSTRATED ALBUMS, CHILDREN'S BOARD BOOKS
- Collection: NUBE DE CARTON
- Binding: Board Book
- Publication date: March 2020
- Number of pages: 42
- Weight: 380 g
Editorial Review
This title by Chris Haughton stands out for its ability to convey a profound message with an economy of narrative and visual resources. The repetition of the attempted capture scene, combined with the subtle intervention of the smallest character, creates a comedic tension that keeps the reader's interest. Its board book format makes it a book especially suitable for early reading stages, and its theme of empathy and flexibility makes it relevant for both children and adults sharing the reading. It is a work that invites conversation and reflection, without ever losing the playful and accessible tone that characterizes the author.