Pistes d'exploration

Discuss the concept of being unique. Why might it be hard or frustrating sometimes? Have you ever felt like Henny? Share something about yourself that is unique.

Write a story titled “I am ME.” Write about what makes you special. Include a picture of yourself.

Discuss names. What does your name mean? Is there a story behind it? Share a baby or toddler picture of yourself and explain why you like it. What can you do now that you couldn’t do then?

Choose another animal and add an unusual feature to its body (e.g. an alligator with wings). What would this animal be able to do now that it couldn’t do before? Share your drawing with the class.

Discuss Henny’s story. Does she achieve her dream? What was your favourite part of the story? What is your dream? What do you wish you could do?

Find 10 words to describe Henny.

Make a T-chart to show what Henny likes and dislikes about having arms instead of wings. Does she have more likes or dislikes?

List five things you can do and five things you can’t do. Compare these with a partner to determine what you have in common. 

Create a collage titled “Unique Me!” to illustrate what makes you so special.

Caramba

Mots-clés

Picture book , chickens , differences , farms , individuality , learning new skills , self-acceptance , self-confidence

Commentaire descriptif

This story about growing up different features a baby chick born with arms. Direct language uses humour to convey Henny’s mixed feelings about her situation: “She even worried about things she didn’t understand—like tennis elbow, and hangnails, and whether she might need deodorant.” Young readers will connect with Henny’s search for true belonging: “Meanwhile she tried to act natural … and fit in.” Illustrations in soft shades of pencil and watercolour work within a spacious layout, to great effect. In one image, a blush-coloured egg flies from Mr. Farmer’s basket; in the bottom corner, Henny is ready to catch it—skinny arms outstretched. Subsequent images show Henny feeding chicks, pushing a wheelbarrow and milking the cow. Children may wish to suggest other things Henny could do. The final spreads show Henny dreaming up new things to do with her arms. Youngsters will enjoy images of Henny as a figure skater, a trapeze artist and even a pilot. “She could fly!” This sweet, funny book shows that our unique gifts can take us exactly where we belong.