Asking questions after reading to your child is a wonderful way to help him or her think about the story and develop comprehension skills. Ask a few, but not too many questions, and remember to have fun. Here are some suggestions for the Anansi story:

* Which part of the story did you like best? (Or least?)

* Which part was the funniest? (Silliest? Saddest?)

* What words did you like best?

* Why do you think Anansi acted the way he did?

* How would you have changed the story's ending?

* What would have happened if Little Bush Deer had not seen Anansi and decided to teach him a lesson?

If you buy supplies ahead, you could end the activity by letting your child make a spider out of marshmallows and pretzel sticks.

-- Susan Rapp, Village Reading Center

Pub Date: 6/24/98