Something Else: questions to ask and activities to try
Something Else doesn't fit in, until Something wants to be his friend. Something Else is a simple, powerful story about being left out and accepting others.
What age is it for? Something Else is best for ages 3–6. Good for: Being left out, and then leaving someone else out.
Something Else (Kathryn Cave and Chris Riddell)
- Age
- 3-6
- Best for
- Being left out, and then leaving someone else out
Read it and pause when Something arrives. Ask your child how Something Else is treating him, and whether it's fair.
What it helps with
- Feeling left out
- Accepting people who are different
- Empathy
- Friendship
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.
- “Why didn’t Something Else fit in?”
- “How did he feel?”
- “Who arrived?”
- “How did Something Else treat him at first?”
- “What did he realise?”
- “How can we include someone different?”
5-minute activities to try together
Odd one in
Draw a creature that's different from everyone, and show it being welcomed.
Include someone
Think of someone who is often left out and plan a way to include them.
Free printables: Something Else 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
Beegu (Alexis Deacon)
- Best for
- Feeling lost and unwelcome, and being welcomed
- Age
- 3-6
Elmer (David McKee)
- Best for
- Children who feel different or want to fit in
- Age
- 2-6
Can I Join Your Club? (John Kelly and Steph Laberis)
- Best for
- Being left out, and starting a club for everyone
- Age
- 3-6
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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.