Milo Imagines the World: questions to ask and activities to try
On a long subway ride, Milo imagines the lives of the people around him. Milo Imagines the World is a warm, moving story about how you can't know anyone just by looking.
What age is it for? Milo Imagines the World is best for ages 4–8. Good for: Imagining other people's lives, and not judging by looks.
Milo Imagines the World (Matt de la Peña and Christian Robinson)
- Age
- 4-8
- Best for
- Imagining other people's lives, and not judging by looks
Read it slowly. The ending is a gentle reveal about where Milo is going; let your child ask questions.
What it helps with
- Imagination and drawing
- Not judging by appearances
- Families in different situations
- Empathy
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.
- “Where was Milo going?”
- “What did he draw?”
- “What did he imagine about people?”
- “What did he learn about the boy in a suit?”
- “Where was Milo really going?”
- “What do people imagine about you?”
5-minute activities to try together
People drawing
On a journey, draw a story about someone you see, then talk about how you can't really know.
Inside story
Draw yourself as people see you, and as you really are.
Free printables: Milo Imagines the World 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
Mr Big (Ed Vere)
- Best for
- Looking scary on the outside, and being lonely
- Age
- 3-7
Beegu (Alexis Deacon)
- Best for
- Feeling lost and unwelcome, and being welcomed
- Age
- 3-6
Eyes That Kiss in the Corners (Joanna Ho and Dung Ho)
- Best for
- Loving your eyes and your heritage
- Age
- 4-8
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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.