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The Cello of Mr. O



Last updated Sunday, October 23, 2005

Author: Jane Cutler
Date of Publication:
ISBN:
Grade Level: 5th    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Aug. 2000

Synopsis: In a ravaged, war-torn city, where heat must come from burning furniture and even cherished books, where even the relief truck is destroyed by enemy fire, how can people find hope? In this powerfully evocative picture book, one little girl discovers the answer.

Discussion topics: To be posted soon ...

Craft ideas:
•  Draw a head for the girl, and one for Mr. O. What's going on in her head? Why is she "angry almost all of the time?" What's going on in his head? Why does he play the music. Draw it out.
•  What do you do when you are scared? Draw a picture, or make a hat with things to do/things you are scared of?
•  In the book, the music coming out of the cello became pictures. What pictures do you hear in music, what feelings does music give you? (Maybe play a classical CD or tape, ala Mr. Rogers??)

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!