FArTHER: questions to ask and activities to try
A father dreams of flying, then goes to war and never returns. FArTHER is a Kate Greenaway Medal-winning picture book about grief and carrying on a dream.
What age is it for? FArTHER is best for ages 7–11. Good for: A father's dream of flight, and a son who carries it on.
FArTHER (Grahame Baker-Smith)
- Age
- 7-11
- Best for
- A father's dream of flight, and a son who carries it on
Read it slowly with older children. Talk about how the son remembered his father.
What it helps with
- Grief and loss
- Following a dream
- Fathers and sons
- War (gently)
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “What did the father dream of?”
- “What happened when he went to war?”
- “How did the boy feel?”
- “What did he find later?”
- “How did he finish the dream?”
- “What dream would you carry on?”
5-minute activities to try together
Flying machine
Design a flying machine on paper.
Dream jar
Write a family dream and keep it safe.
Free printables: FArTHER worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
Ocean Meets Sky (The Fan Brothers)
- Best for
- Remembering Grandfather, and sailing to where ocean meets sky
- Age
- 4-8
Badger's Parting Gifts (Susan Varley)
- Best for
- Death, grief and remembering someone you love
- Age
- 4-8
Where the Poppies Now Grow (Hilary Robinson and Martin Impey)
- Best for
- Friendship, the First World War and remembrance
- Age
- 5-8
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.