The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires

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The Most Magnificent Thing

Title: The Most Magnificent Thing

Author: Ashely Spires
Illustrator: Ashely Spires

Publisher: Kids Can Press (2014)

ISBN: 9781554537044

A girl and her best friend in the whole wide world do all kinds of things together. “They race. They eat. They explore. They relax. She makes things. He unmakes things.” A girl, and her canine assistant glue, adjust, examine, stare, tweak, fasten, fix, straighten and study to create the most magnificent thing. “They are shocked to discover that the thing isn’t magnificent. Or good. It isn’t even kind-of-sort-of-okay. It is all WRONG. The girl tosses it aside and gives it another go.”

Her enthusiasm and confidence subside until she gets mad and quits! She walks her assistant and “bit by bit, the mad gets pushed out of her head” and inspiration hits her. She starts construction of the magnificent thing on the sidewalk where neighbours, climbing over her discarded attempts, discover they can use them for themselves. The girl and her dog finish their design and “climb aboard and take it for a spin. They are not disappointed. It really is THE MOST MAGNIFICENT THING.”

These picture books show characters committed to personal learning, using self-discipline, responsibility and determination in positive ways.

A lack of confidence may stem from doubt, identity, fitting in, disapproval and struggling to stand up for themselves. These picture books are a wonderful tool to encourage and foster confidence.

Browse this picture book list for examples of creative characters. Their actions model imaginative and innovative thinking and creative problem-solving.

Determination allows us to push through challenges and give things another go. These picture books show how hard work and determination can overcome obstacles.

Enthusiasm helps us see something through to the end with enjoyment. These picture books show characters excited about their life and learning in positive ways.

Recognising their own feelings and those of others helps children identify and control their own emotions in challenging situations. These picture books promote compassionate and empathetic attitudes to build positive relationships.

The following picture books challenge gender stereotypes. They present characters who don't fit into "normal" gender roles. They are instead true to themselves.

Inspire children’s interest and enthusiasm of the world around them and their own learning with these great picture books.

These wonderful picture books feature female lead characters as smart, confident, and courageous.

Having perspective involves being open-minded, tolerant & respectful. Picture books help support discussions on different points of views.

Problem-solving activities build critical thinking, interpersonal and independence skills. These picture books show determined characters facing a problem and figuring out a solution.

These picture books present independent and effective thinkers who develop creative ideas, make connections and problem solve.

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Resources

These resources relate to the book, author and illustrator. The number of resources varies book to book. Please check they are appropriate for your specific needs before using them with children. If you have suggestions please get in touch!

Kids Can Press: The Most Magnificent Thing Teaching Guide
The NED Show: Lesson Plan
Scholastic: Design Thinking: A Lesson That Connects Classmates
Reading is Fundamental: Support Materials
Ashely Spires Official Website
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