A Song of Gladness: A story of hope for us and our planet
What’s inside...
Travel the globe in this inspiring journey through the animal kingdom. A Song of Gladness is a timely reminder of the beauty and importance of the natural world from two of today's most celebrated children's book creators. From a blackbird in a Devon garden to leopards in the African savanna, this book highlights the interconnectedness of all living creatures and the importance of harmony and conservation. Un beau matin, un merle perché sur une branche entonne un chant. Un chant de paix, un chant d'espoir pour notre planète, afin d'apaiser le cœur des hommes et, surtout, y apporter la joie. Et son message va voyager tout autour du monde.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
36 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What does the song of gladness mean to you, and why do you think it's important for our planet?
How can we, as a family, help nature and the animals around us?
Who was your favorite animal in the story, and what lesson did they teach?
How do you think the animals in the story felt when they all came together to sing?
What are some ways we can spread gladness and hope to others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts and feelings about the book to create an open environment. Listen actively to your child’s responses, and encourage them to think deeper by asking follow-up questions. Connect the story's themes to real-life situations or family activities involving nature and community service. Incorporate drawings or art projects based on the book to make the discussion more interactive and enjoyable. Reinforce the positive messages from the book, celebrating small steps your family can take to make a difference in the world.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of unity and cooperation
Explanation: In 'A Song of Gladness,' various creatures, including humans, come together to sing a song of hope, illustrating the power of unity in achieving harmony and balance in the environment.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to work collaboratively with others, whether in school projects or in community activities, understanding that collective efforts often lead to greater outcomes.
Example Lesson: Respect and care for the environment
Explanation: The story emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living beings and the impact of our actions on the planet, encouraging a respectful and nurturing attitude towards nature.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to engage in environmentally friendly practices like recycling, conserving water, or planting trees, fostering a sense of responsibility towards Earth.
Example Lesson: Hope and positivity in challenging times
Explanation: Despite the adversities faced by the characters, the book highlights the importance of maintaining hope and positivity to overcome challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain optimistic and hopeful during difficult situations in their own lives, using positive thinking as a tool to cope with challenges.
Example Lesson: The power of a collective voice
Explanation: The creatures in the story use their collective voice to bring about change, demonstrating the strength that lies in unity and shared goals.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of speaking up for what they believe in and shows them that when voices come together, they can influence change in their community or school.