The Way Back Home: questions to ask and activities to try
A boy flies his aeroplane to the moon and gets stuck, and so does a Martian. The Way Back Home is a magical story about problem solving, friendship and finding your way home.
What age is it for? The Way Back Home is best for ages 3–7. Good for: Problem solving, and helping someone in the same trouble.
The Way Back Home (Oliver Jeffers)
- Age
- 3-7
- Best for
- Problem solving, and helping someone in the same trouble
Read it at bedtime, with the moon in view if you can. Pause when the boy is stranded and ask how he could get home.
What it helps with
- Problem solving when you're stuck
- Helping someone with the same problem
- Friendship across differences
- Imagination and adventure
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 boy find in his cupboard?”
- “Why did he get stuck on the moon?”
- “Who else was stuck?”
- “How did they help each other?”
- “How did they get home?”
- “What would you do if you were stuck?”
5-minute activities to try together
Moon trip
Make a rocket or aeroplane from a box and fly to the moon. What do you need to get home?
Help swap
Think of a problem you could help a friend with, and one they could help you with.
Free printables: The Way Back Home 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
Lost and Found (Oliver Jeffers)
- Best for
- Loneliness, and the friendships we don't expect
- Age
- 3-7
Astro Girl (Ken Wilson-Max)
- Best for
- Dreaming big, and girls who love space
- Age
- 3-6
The Hueys in None the Number (Oliver Jeffers)
- Best for
- Counting, and the puzzle of zero
- Age
- 3-7
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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.