Chrysanthemum
From Weston Woods Storybook Films · 1999
13 minK1st2nd3rdReading & Writing (ELA)Social-Emotional Learning
Summary
Kevin Henkes's beloved school story, narrated by Meryl Streep: Chrysanthemum the mouse loves her long, flowery name -- until classmates tease her about it on the first day of school. With help from a music teacher who has an unusual name of her own, Chrysanthemum learns her name, and she, are absolutely perfect. A gentle story about teasing, kindness, and self-worth.
Viewer safety
All ages
The classmates tease Chrysanthemum about her name — a gentle, teachable look at teasing that resolves warmly; a good springboard for a kindness talk.
Our rating is a quick teacher-to-teacher guide — preview before showing.
Teaching resources
Discussion questions
Chrysanthemum loves her name until other kids at school make fun of it.
- How does Chrysanthemum feel about her name at the start? How does that change at school?
- Why do you think the other kids tease her? How does teasing make someone feel?
- What does Mrs. Twinkle do that helps Chrysanthemum feel better?
- What is something special about your own name or about you?
Quick work-a-long
Words to know: wilted, bloomed, tease, perfect
- The author says Chrysanthemum "wilted" and later "bloomed." Explain what each word tells us about her feelings.
- Write one kind thing you could say to a classmate who is feeling left out.