The Annual Meeting of Birds

The Annual Meeting of Birds Parent and Teacher Guide

The Annual Meeting of Birds, is an engaging, educational story perfect for encouraging young readers to think about acceptance, empathy, and perseverance. The humorous and relatable journey of the three birds teaches life lessons in an entertaining way, sparking meaningful conversations about diversity and self-worth. Through vibrant illustrations and clever storytelling, this book will become a favorite among children, parents, and educators alike.

The story starts with a new rule announced at the Annual Meeting of Birds, that only birds that can fly are allowed to attend the grand celebration. For flightless birds like the ostrich, penguin, and chicken, this spells disaster. Ridiculed and expelled from the bird family, they must find a way to prove they belong.

With the wise owl’s help, the trio embarks on a journey to demonstrate that being part of the bird family is about more than just flying. Through witty excuses, failed flight attempts, and valuable lessons, they show that what truly unites them isn’t flight—it’s their feathers.

This delightful tale teaches children the importance of embracing diversity, taking time before judging others, and fostering confidence and perseverance. Full of charm and wisdom, the Annual Meeting of Birds reminds readers that everyone has a place, no matter their differences.

Key Themes:

• Diversity and Inclusion: Emphasizing the value of accepting differences, as even non-flying birds belong to the bird family
• Overcoming Judgments: Encouraging children not to judge others hastily and to appreciate different perspectives
• Confidence and Perseverance: Promoting self-belief and determination in overcoming obstacles
• Problem-Solving through Dialogue: Highlighting the importance of communication and listening in resolving conflicts without exclusion
• Respect and Empathy: Teaching the importance of respecting others and avoiding mockery based on differences

Questions for Discussion:

• What makes a person or being part of a certain group? Do they all need to be the same?
• In the story, the ostrich, penguin, and chicken were not allowed to celebrate because they couldn’t fly. Do you think this is fair? Why?
• If you were one of the flying birds, would you allow them to join? How would you treat them?
• Have you ever felt that you couldn’t participate in something because you couldn’t do it? How did it feel?
• What would you say to someone going through the same experience?
• The wise owl said that feathers are what make all birds the same. If you had to choose one thing that makes people belong together, what would it be?
• How can you make everyone feel like they are part of the group?
• Why do you think the flying birds quickly mocked the non-flying birds?
• Have you ever seen someone treated unfairly because they were different?
• How can you help others be kinder?
• What lesson did the birds learn in the end?
• How do you think they will treat the ostrich, penguin, and chicken afterward?
• Was going to the owl a good idea?
• Do you have someone you trust and ask for help when facing a problem? Why is this important?
• Do you think being different is good or bad? How would the world be if everyone were exactly the same?
• In the story, challenges turned into strengths. Do you remember a time in your life when a challenge became a strength for you?
• What is the most important message you learned from the story?
• How can you apply it in your daily life, whether at school, with friends, or in the community?