Grade 1 · Class Reads · Book guide
Jabari Jumps
by Gaia Cornwall
Jabari has finished his swimming lessons and says he is ready to jump from the diving board. At the pool, he discovers that being ready can still include feeling nervous.
Book details
Format
Picture-book fiction
Suggested age range
Ages 4–8
Why read it together?
A book worth talking about
The story gives young readers a familiar way to discuss fear, encouragement, and taking a challenge one step at a time. Its illustrations also provide useful clues about feelings that the words do not always state.
- Courage
- Family support
- Trying something new
- Managing fear
Before reading
Get ready to wonder
- What helps you feel ready when you are trying something new?
- What clues in a picture might show that a character feels nervous?
During and after reading
Talk about the text
- What details show how Jabari feels even when he says he is ready?
- How does Jabari's father help without doing the challenge for him?
- When does Jabari's thinking begin to change?
Writing invitation
Respond to the book
Draw or write about something you learned to do. Include one thing that helped you keep trying.