Jada’s House | Kids Book Read Aloud | Story Time with Khan Academy Kids | Reading Adventures

Alphabets Sounds Video

share us on:

In “Jada’s House,” Jada initially dislikes her new neighbor, Javier, due to their contrasting homes and lifestyles. However, a stormy encounter leads to a surprising revelation about Javier’s artistic talents and shared interests, prompting Jada to apologize and extend a friendship. Through their collaboration to restore their homes, Jada learns the importance of understanding and connecting with others, ultimately forging a meaningful bond with Javier.
  1. Why did Jada not like Javier at first?
  2. What did Jada learn about Javier when they started talking?
  3. How did Jada and Javier become friends by working together?

Discovering Friendship in “Jada’s House”

Welcome to an enchanting story time with Stephanie Spence, the author of the delightful book “Jada’s House.” This story, available for free on the Khan Academy app, introduces us to Jada, a young girl who adores her quirky, old house but isn’t too fond of her new neighbor, Javier. Let’s dive into this tale to uncover why.

The Charm of Jada’s House

Jada’s house is a unique, creaky old structure, lovingly built by her grandpa with an abundance of boards. Its pink shutters make a rhythmic bump-bump sound when it rains, and the garden is lush with ginger and okra. Unlike the plain, newer houses, Jada’s home is full of character. From her porthole window, she can see the world, wave to seagulls, and shout to the morning boats. However, she often turns away when Javier, her neighbor, passes by their tangled garden.

Javier’s Palace Next Door

Javier lives in a grand house next door, complete with lacy white curtains and a giant pool. He seems to have a leisurely life, sipping lemonade while Jada tends to her garden. Jada finds him annoying and tries her best to ignore him, questioning the appeal of a new house. Her father reassures her that everyone has different preferences, just like their shared love for tea time in their quirky home.

A Stormy Encounter

One windy day, the sea roars louder, and the usual seagulls and boats are absent. Jada’s mother invites Javier’s family over as a storm approaches, much to Jada’s dismay. Despite her reluctance, Jada’s parents warmly welcome Javier’s family, and the house responds with an extra-large creak.

Unveiling Hidden Talents

As the rain pours, Jada notices Javier engrossed in a book. Curious, she asks about it, and Javier shyly reveals that he enjoys drawing because no one in the neighborhood talks to him. To Jada’s surprise, his book contains beautiful drawings of her garden, the seagulls, and even Jada herself at the porthole window. Realizing her misconceptions, Jada apologizes and offers Javier some tea, marking the beginning of a new friendship.

Building Bonds and New Beginnings

When the storm subsides, both houses and gardens show signs of wear. Jada and Javier decide to work together to restore their homes, with Jada bringing her toolbox and Javier his paint. Through this collaboration, Jada learns an essential lesson: understanding someone requires taking the time to know them. She and Javier are set to become great friends.

If you enjoyed this heartwarming story, you can explore more free books on the Khan Academy app, available on the Google Play Store, Apple Store, or Amazon app. Thank you for joining us in this delightful reading adventure!

  • What do you think makes Jada’s house special, and how is it different from Javier’s house? Can you think of something special about your own home?
  • Why do you think Jada didn’t like Javier at first? Have you ever felt unsure about someone new, and what helped you become friends?
  • Jada and Javier worked together to fix their homes after the storm. Can you think of a time when you worked with someone to solve a problem or create something new? How did it feel to work together?
  1. Draw Your Own House: Imagine your dream house and draw it on a piece of paper. Think about what makes it special, just like Jada’s house. Does it have a garden, a special window, or a unique color? Share your drawing with a friend or family member and explain why your house is special to you.
  2. Friendship Role Play: Pair up with a friend or family member and act out a scene where you meet a new neighbor. Practice introducing yourself and asking questions to get to know them better. What questions would you ask to learn about their interests? How can you make them feel welcome?
  3. Garden Observation: Go outside and observe a garden or a park. Look for different plants, flowers, or animals. Draw or write about what you see. How is it similar to or different from Jada’s garden? Discuss with a friend or family member how nature can be a great way to connect with others, just like Jada and Javier did.

All Video Lessons

Login your account

Please login your account to get started.

Don't have an account?

Register your account

Please sign up your account to get started.

Already have an account?