Summer Reading #8: ‘Stop the Clock’ by Pippa Goodhart

✨ About the Book

It often feels like time is chasing us… and that’s exactly how Joe feels.

Everything in his life seems rushed—his mum is in a hurry, he has to get ready for school quickly, his teacher is in a hurry, and he must finish his work before time runs out.

Joe feels overwhelmed. He can’t enjoy the little things, finish his drawing, or even stop to understand why his little sister is crying.

So, he makes a bold decision: to stop time.

By doing so, he begins to notice the small details around him and truly experience the world.
But… will he be able to stop the clock?

📖 Book Information

Topic: Children’s fiction
Age: 5–8
Pages: 32
Level: Young learners
Skills: Reading, reflecting, speaking, writing (telling the time)

🎯 Learning Aim

Encourage children to reflect on the value of slowing down
Appreciate the importance of small moments and sharing them with others

💡 What Children Can Learn

Telling the time: asking and answering questions about time
Understanding how to manage time in a positive way
Observing “stories within the story”:
- What are people in the street doing?
- Where are they going?
- How are they feeling?

The detailed illustrations—especially of the houses—invite children to imagine and create their own stories.

💬 My Opinion

This is a simple yet deeply meaningful story.

It carries an important message not only for children but also for adults. Even after everything the world experienced during the pandemic, many people have returned to living in a constant rush—trying to do too many things at once.

Children, too, often have their time filled with activities, leaving little space to play, explore, and simply experience the world.

This book is a gentle and inspiring reminder to slow down and truly live each moment.