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Turn a kids book into a mind map with AI

Upload the text or notes from any story and get an editable, explorable mind map of its characters, setting, plot, and theme.

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How a story mind map helps young readers

Reading a picture book or chapter book together is easier to follow when the story sits in one view. A mind map for a kids book keeps characters, setting, and plot in sight, so a child can retell the story in their own words.

  • Start with the main character and what they want.
  • Add the setting and any places that change the plot.
  • Mark the problem, the key events, and how it is resolved.
  • Finish with the theme and one detail from the story that shows it.
Example story elements for a kids book mind map
SettingWhere the story takes place · When it takes place · Key locations that shape events
CharactersMain character · Supporting characters · The character's goal · How the character changes
PlotProblem · Rising events · Turning point · Resolution
ThemeLesson the story teaches · Clues in key scenes · Evidence from the ending
Point of viewFirst person or third person · Narrator's perspective · What the reader knows
Generate the full set

Editable branches

Rename, move, or add branches so the map matches what your child noticed in the story.

Explorable map

Click through characters, setting, and plot to see how the story fits together.

Built from your copy

Upload a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, text file, or a photo of the page, and the map comes from that text.

How it works

Upload the book

Add the book text, a PDF, or photos of the pages.

Generate the map

Get a mind map with the main story branches already placed.

Edit and explore

Adjust the branches with your child, then study the map in your browser.

Start from text you already have. Upload a PDF, a Word file, or a photo of the pages, and DeckOwl reads the text and proposes main branches. You can rename or move any branch before you use the map.

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Frequently asked questions

What should a kids book mind map include?

Most children's book mind maps cover the main character, the setting, the problem, key events, and the resolution. Adding the theme at the end helps a child connect the story to a lesson.

How can a child make a mind map of a book they read?

Have them list the characters first, then add the problem and how it gets solved. Short one- or two-word labels are easier to remember and review later.

Can I export the mind map?

Exports such as PDF and DOCX are part of the Plus plan, which costs $99.90/year or $9.99/month. The free plan lets you study the map in the browser without exports.

Is there a free plan?

Yes. The free plan includes 3 generations per month, and no credit card is needed to start. Students get 40% off Plus with a school email.

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Keep exploring the topic

Review the main ideas visually or practice recalling them.