Beekle

Written and Illustrated by: Dan Santat

This magical story begins on an island far away where an imaginary friend is born. He patiently waits his turn to be chosen by a real child, but when he is overlooked time and again, he sets off on an incredible journey to the bustling city, where he finally meets his perfect match and – at long last – is given his special name: Beekle.

On this surface, this book is about friendship and imagination. Laced throughout it, though, is a brave soul on a mission for what his heart truly wants. The journey isn’t always easy and is often unfamiliar, but Beekle doesn’t give up – not once. I read this book for a good story about finding a friend, but I read it over and over again for its inspiring tale of hope and persistence.

Discussion/Project Ideas:

1. What is something you really want? What could stand in your way? How would you get past or deal with the obstacle?

2. How do you try to find new friends? What do you look for in a friend? How do you try to be a good friend?

3. Beekle’s island is much different than the bustling city. Compare and contrast these two places. You can make a list, a T-Chart, a Venn Diagram, or anything else that can help you organize and display your thoughts.