Before Reading
Today we are going to read a new book by Peter Carnavas.
Before reading, look at the front cover and the title to predict what the story might be about.
Is being quiet a good thing or a bad thing? Discuss the times when being quiet is good and the times when being quiet could be something to worry about.
Ask the children to share with the class the times when they are quiet. Why is it good to be quiet sometimes?
Watch the following book trailer that has been made by Peter Carnavas to introduce his new book. Do we learn anymore about the story from the book trailer?
Before reading, look at the front cover and the title to predict what the story might be about.
Is being quiet a good thing or a bad thing? Discuss the times when being quiet is good and the times when being quiet could be something to worry about.
Ask the children to share with the class the times when they are quiet. Why is it good to be quiet sometimes?
Watch the following book trailer that has been made by Peter Carnavas to introduce his new book. Do we learn anymore about the story from the book trailer?
Reading and Discussing
- Why does Mary hear things that nobody else hears? What sorts of things does she hear?
- Go outside and spend time listening. Write a list of everything you hear. Mary has a voice, but often feels as though she is not heard. Have you ever felt like this?
- Why do you think it is so difficult for Mary to be heard?
- Why does Mary decide ‘to be quieter than she had ever been before’? Why does it take so long for her family to realise that she has disappeared?
- What do the illustrations of Mary’s mother, brother and father show about their ability to listen to Mary? Are they deliberately not listening or are they just going about their normal activities?