Bubbly Beautiful Kitty-Corn
by Shannon Hale
Pacing MaterialKitty and Unicorn continue their heartwarming friendship as they explore the meaning of being 'bubbly' and 'beautiful.' The story highlights the challenges of trying to fit a specific mold and the joy found in being authentically yourself.
Big Idea
True friendship is built on accepting one another exactly as we are, rather than trying to change to meet perceived expectations.
Discussion Questions
- 1.What does it mean to be 'bubbly' to Kitty?
- 2.Why does Kitty feel pressure to change her appearance?
- 3.How does Unicorn show support for Kitty?
- 4.In what ways do friends help us feel more confident?
- 5.What does the ending teach us about self-love?
Classroom Activities
My Unique Sparkle Collage
Students create a visual collage representing their own unique traits that make them 'bubbly' and 'beautiful' in their own way.
My Unique Sparkle Collage
Students create a visual collage representing their own unique traits that make them 'bubbly' and 'beautiful' in their own way.
Lesson Plan
Learning Goals
- Identify personal character strengths
- Practice self-expression through art
- Understand the importance of self-acceptance
- Reflect on friendship dynamics
Activity Steps
- 1.Brainstorm three unique traits about yourself
- 2.Collect magazines, paper, and art supplies
- 3.Cut out images or words that represent your personality
- 4.Arrange and glue items onto a poster board
- 5.Share your collage with a partner
Standards Connections
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.K.1
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.K.8
- SEL-Self-Awareness
- SEL-Relationship Skills
Pace-Write-Read Study with Pace-Write It!
Shannon Hale uses pacing to mirror the internal emotional arc of her characters. By shifting between Kitty's insecurities and Unicorn's steady reassurance, the reader experiences the ebb and flow of confidence.
| Element | How to notice or teach it in the novel |
|---|---|
| Pacing | Encourage students to read the dialogue-heavy sections faster to show excitement, and slower during moments of self-reflection. |
| Plot | The plot relies on a simple misunderstanding that blossoms into a realization; track the character's 'worry' versus 'joy' levels. |
| Prosody | Model reading the 'kitty-corn' sound effects with exaggerated enthusiasm to emphasize the playful tone. |
| Word | Focus on the specific adjectives Hale chooses to contrast Kitty's feelings of inadequacy with Unicorn's positive affirmations. |
| Voice & Worldview | Identify the distinct voices of the two characters and how their worldviews shape their friendship. |
Pace-Write It!
Write a short letter to a friend describing one thing you admire about them that makes them 'bubbly' and unique.