Lenny's Book of Everything

Lenny's Book of Everything by Karen Foxlee is a beautifully written, multi-award-winning novel that delicately explores the themes of love, loss, and the resilience of family. The story follows Lenny, a sharp young girl, and her brother Davey, who grows at an alarming rate, reaching the height of a man by the age of seven. Despite their modest upbringing and the challenges they face, their lives are brightened by the arrival of the Burrell's Build-It-at-Home Encyclopedia, a series of books that sparks their imagination and curiosity. As Lenny and Davey dream about the wonders of the world, from beetles to quasars, their lives take a heartbreaking turn when Davey's health begins to decline. Lenny soon learns that some wonders are beyond description, leading her to confront deep questions about life, love, and loss. This poignant and bittersweet tale is not only an exploration of family bonds but also a reflection on the power of imagination in the face of adversity. Lenny's Book of Everything is a timeless classic that will captivate readers aged 10-14, offering a rich, character-driven narrative that invites empathy, critical thinking, and personal reflection.

Educational Benefits:

• Teaches emotional resilience and how to cope with loss in a compassionate way.
• Sparks curiosity and imagination through the exploration of real-world phenomena, such as quasars and beetles.
• Encourages discussions on health, illness, and the importance of family support during difficult times.
• Provides a deeply emotional and character-driven narrative that promotes empathy and self-reflection.

Classroom Ideas:

• Literary Analysis: Study the themes of growth, change, and sibling relationships, analysing how Lenny and Davey's connection evolves.
• Creative Writing: Have students write about a personal experience where they had to let go of something or someone important to them, reflecting on how it shaped them.
• Science & Imagination: Use the encyclopedia featured in the story to explore real-life phenomena such as quasars, birds, and beetles in the classroom.
• Art: Encourage students to create visual representations of the wonders described in the book, including drawings or illustrations of the encyclopedia entries.
• Personal Reflection: Ask students to write a letter to Lenny or Davey, offering advice or words of comfort based on their own personal experiences with loss or family.

Information:

• Ages: 10-14
• Book Size: 208 (H) x 138 (W) mm
• Pages: 352