The Stars Beneath Our Feet

Use these questions or activities to help gauge students’ familiarity with and spark their interest in the context of the work, giving them an entry point into the text itself.

Short Answer

What might be the impact of art and creativity on emotions? How might creativity be considered an important aspect of society? Where can creativity and art be found in everyday life?

Teaching Suggestion: Lolly, the novel’s protagonist, struggles to understand and cope with his violent surroundings. He uses Lego and the design and construction process as a coping mechanism to make sense of his world and escape his emotions. Students might use the prompt as a springboard for discussing the impact of art on society, the importance of creativity to the individual and to groups, and the overall purpose of art and creativity.

• This 6-minute video explores the purpose of art. (Teacher-appropriate; may not be student-facing for all groups due to brief images of wartime violence)
• This article describes how art positively affects the brain.

Short Activity

Research some of the world’s most interesting Lego builds and share your favorites with peers. Describe important details and timelines for the build. Then describe your experience designing, constructing, drawing, and composing some original creation.