A Nest for Celeste: A Story About Art, Inspiration, and the Meaning of Home (Nest for Celeste, 1)
#1 in Celeste Series
What’s inside...
A Nest for Celeste is a beautifully illustrated short novel for middle graders that tells the story of Celeste, a mouse searching for a home in the 1800s. As Celeste seeks warmth and companionship, she befriends Joseph, the young apprentice of famous naturalist John James Audubon. Throughout the story, readers are introduced to nineteenth-century plantation life and Audubon's renowned artwork, all while exploring themes of friendship and the true meaning of home.
Discussion points
What do you think home means to Celeste and why is it important to her?
How do you think Celeste feels when she meets new characters and how would you feel in her place?
What does the artwork in the book make you feel and how do they help tell Celeste's story?
What kind of adventures would you like to have if you were Celeste?
How do the themes of friendship and courage appear throughout Celeste's journey?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Celeste’s journey, helping them connect with the character’s experiences.
Discuss the illustrations with your child, asking how they think the artwork complements the narrative, and what emotions the images evoke.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s personal experiences, such as moving to a new home or making new friends, to enhance understanding and empathy.
Prompt your child to imagine alternate scenarios or endings for Celeste’s story, encouraging creativity and deeper engagement with the text.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: Celeste, a gentle and resourceful mouse, interacts with various creatures throughout the story, learning about their struggles and offering her help. Her kindness towards others, despite her own challenges, highlights the importance of empathy and compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to understand and share the feelings of their peers or animals they encounter, fostering a nurturing environment at home and in school.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Resourcefulness
Explanation: Faced with many adversities, Celeste uses her creativity to solve problems, such as building a nest or helping other characters. Her innovative approaches to challenges underscore the value of creativity.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to use their imagination to craft solutions for everyday problems or engage in creative activities that stimulate their intellectual growth.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Home
Explanation: Throughout Celeste’s journey, the concept of what makes a 'home' is explored—not just as a physical space but as a feeling of safety and belonging. This deeper understanding of home can teach children about its significance beyond just a place to live.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate their own homes and understand the emotional importance of a safe and loving environment.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Celeste faces numerous obstacles throughout the book but consistently demonstrates perseverance by pushing forward and never giving up, which ultimately leads to her finding a true home and friendship.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of persistence in the face of difficulties, whether it’s dealing with a challenging task or adapting to new situations.
Example Lesson: Interconnectedness of Nature
Explanation: The story shows how various animals and elements within an ecosystem rely on and interact with each other, highlighting the interconnectedness of nature.
Real-World Application: This can lead to a greater appreciation and respect for nature among children and encourage behaviors that contribute positively to the environment.