The Very Lonely Firefly is part of our Starts With a Story Collection, which includes more than 550 picture book companions based on high quality children’s literature that support you in delivering highly-engaging interactive read alouds with follow up activities. Learn more about this children’s book below! - Jodi and the Starts With a Story Team
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SUMMARY
"The Very Lonely Firefly" by Eric Carle is a captivating children's book that follows the journey of a little firefly in search of companionship. The story begins with the firefly searching for other fireflies but mistakenly approaching various sources of light, including a lantern and a car's headlights. Disappointed and still lonely, the firefly continues its quest. Finally, one night, the firefly spots a group of fireflies whose lights blink in unison. Excitedly joining them, the firefly discovers the joy of belonging and friendship. Carle's signature illustrations, filled with vibrant colors and textured collages, bring the story to life, captivating young readers. "The Very Lonely Firefly" not only teaches about the importance of finding one's place in the world but also introduces children to different sources of light and the behavior of fireflies. It is a heartwarming tale that celebrates the power of connection and the beauty of friendship.
 USE THIS BOOK TO TEACH:
Our read aloud lesson plans for this picture book come with reading comprehension questions (with sample student responses), 30 writing prompts, teaching ideas for grammar skills, social emotional learning discussion ideas, and more. Check out our list below to get a sneak peek at some of the skills this resource teaches.
- Analyze the setting of this book. Discuss where and when it takes place.
- Practice comparing and contrasting after you read the book.
- Have students identify the point of view and discuss the benefits of the narrator.
- Discuss the author’s use of rhyme and rhythm in this book.
- Teach a mini lesson on compound words.
- Practice identifying conjunctions using examples from the story.
- Use this book to discuss a variety of emotions with students and how to manage them.
NO-PREP PRINTABLE ACTIVITIES:
If you are looking for “ready to go” activities for the first day of school, be sure to check out the book companion. With it you’ll receive all of the following resources to align with this specific book:
- comprehension questions
- 30Â writing prompts with themed paper
- vocabulary activities
- word study print & go activities
- ideas for grammar lessons with focus sentence printables
- social emotional learning discussion topics
- graphic organizers to target specific comprehension skills and strategies
This book is a must have for your school or classroom library. Your students are going to love completing these activities for the book and you will be impressed with how much they learn. You will want to read this book to your class every year.
GET THE PRINTABLE ACTIVITIES
ADDITIONAL BOOK SUGGESTIONS
You and your students will love the similar books listed below, which can all be found in our free picture book list.
- The Grouchy Ladybug by Eric Carle
- The Very Busy Spider by Eric Carle
- The Very Clumsy Click Beetle by Eric Carle
- The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
- The Very Quiet Cricket by Eric Carle
TRY OUT A SAMPLE COMPANION
It's hard to explain how amazing the Starts with a Story book companions are because there is just so much goodness included in each one. It's best if you experience using one for yourself. Sign up below & we'll send you an entire book companion to try out for FREE!
