Book description from Goodreads: “After Raccoon’s home burns down in a lightning storm, his friends don’t know what they can do to help. Squirrel, Beaver, Mouse, Badger, and Rabbit all go back to their own homes, trying to focus on something other than Raccoon’s tragedy. But each animal discovers one small thing they can do for Raccoon–and it turns out that each small act may not be so small after all.

A gentle and powerful look at how small actions can make a big impact.”

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Enjoy this interview with Marsha about One Small Thing at Jena Benton’s blog.

And feel free to check out the author’s own free Activity Guide to go with this book!

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Educational Activities inspired by One Small Thing:

• Before Reading–From looking at the front cover: 
  • What do you think the book will be about?
  • Who or what could “one small thing” be?
  • What emotion do the creatures on the cover seem to be feeling?
  • What does the setting tell you about the story?
  • Can you guess the main theme of the book?
  • What do you think the main character’s challenge might be?
  • What questions would you like to ask the author before reading the book?
• After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story: 
  • Would you recommend this book to your friends? Why/​why not?
  • How did the “one small thing” in the story make a big difference?
  • How did the main character feel throughout the story?
  • What did you think about the ending?
  • Did anything in the story surprise you?
  • What lesson did you learn from the story?
  • Which picture did you like the most? Why?
  • How did the illustrations contribute to the story?
  • Did the colors in the book match the mood of the story? How so?
  • How did the illustrations help you understand the main character better?
  • Did the illustrations make you feel like you were in the story? How so?
• Mindful Minute: The story invites us to slow down and appreciate the smaller things. Practice a Mindful Minute each day. Close your eyes, take deep breaths, and focus on your senses. What can you hear, smell, or feel? It’s a great way to be present and appreciate small moments!
• Tiny Treasures Artwork: Create an art piece using small objects you can find around your house or outdoors–like pebbles, leaves, or buttons. Each little piece contributes to the overall beauty, just like each small action can lead to significant results in the world around us.
• Small Things Scavenger Hunt: Create a scavenger hunt focused on finding small things. Write a list of small items to find both inside and outside your home. It could include a red leaf, a button, a paper clip, etc. Have fun finding these small items and realize just how much you might overlook in your everyday life.
• The Smallest Bake: With the help of an adult, bake a batch of mini cupcakes, cookies, or any treat you love. Enjoy the process of creating and, of course, eating them! This will show you how even small things can bring a big smile to your face.
• My Small Hero Story: Just like the main character in the book, you can be a hero in small ways! Write a story where you perform small acts of kindness that make a big difference. Be creative, and remember that no action is too small to matter! Feel free to illustrate it, if you want. And consider sharing it with others to enjoy.
  
• Further Reading: One Small Thing is about a number of topics, including helping others. Let’s look at other picture books that that explore that same idea. Which of these have you already read? Which of the others would you want to read first? (Click on any book cover for more information on these titles!)