Deconstructing penguins : parents, kids, and the bond of reading / Lawrence and Nancy Goldstone.

"Books are like puzzles. The author's ideas are hidden, and it is up to all of us to figure them out." In this reading companion, the Goldstones--noted parent-child book club experts--encourage grownups and young readers alike to adopt an approach that will unlock the magic and power of reading. With the Goldstones' help, parents can inspire kids' lifelong love of reading by teaching them how to unlock a book's hidden meaning. Featuring fun and incisive discussions of numerous children's classics, this dynamic guide highlights key elements--theme, setting, character, point of view, climax, and conflict--and paves the way for meaningful conversations between parents and children. "Best of all," the Goldstones note, "you don't need an advanced degree in literature or forty hours a week of free time to effectively discuss a book with your child. This isn't Crime and Punishment, it's Charlotte's Web."--Publisher description