Whatcha Building?

Whatcha Building? is a rich, multi-layered story that celebrates imagination, sustainability, and community. As old buildings come down and new ones rise, young Davey Durak quietly gathers discarded materials for a secret project. While adults wonder what he's up to, readers are invited to reflect on deeper themes of change, loss, memory, and the things we choose to preserve. With poignant illustrations crafted from recycled objects by Stephen Michael King, the book mirrors its eco-conscious message in every detail. This thoughtful story is ideal for starting classroom conversations about construction, gentrification, environmental stewardship, and the importance of listening to children's ideas. A must-have for educators exploring community, change, and creativity.

Educational Benefits:

• Encourages critical thinking about environmental and social change.
• Supports comprehension through visual-text interplay.
• Promotes respect for children's agency and ideas.
• Inspires sustainable art and STEM exploration.

Classroom Ideas:

• Use recycled materials for a œmystery project activity inspired by Davey's creation.
• Host a classroom discussion on how communities evolve over time.
• Create a map of students' neighbourhoods, noting what has changed or stayed the same.
• Write letters to future residents about what students value in their community.

Information:

• Ages: 5-9 years
• Format: Hardcover
• Focus: Sustainability, creativity, community, environmental education