What would you do if the ant you were about to step on looked up and started talking? Would you stop and listen? What if your friends saw you hesitate? That’s what happens in this funny, thought-provoking book. Originally a song by a father-daughter team, this conversation between two creatures, large and small, is bound to inspire important discussions. It might even answer that classic childhood question: To squish or not to squish?
Phillip M. Hoose is an American writer of books, essays, stories, songs, and articles. His first published works were written for adults but he turned his attention to children and young adults, in part to keep up with his daughters. His work has been well received and honored more than once by the children’s literature community.
Read Aloud Tips
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While reading, have students brain storm what should happen to the ant and talk through the reasoning together.
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Allow time to study the illustrations and deeply understand the overall message. Consider both arguments: the ant pleading to live and the boy who questions the value of the ant’s life.
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This book can help students become more aware of other things that are different from us.
Hey, Little Ant is the perfect tool to help inspire compassion in our world’s youth, and has a positive message for grown-ups, too! Please share this book and its lessons with your family today. – Jane Goodall