At Night
on Goodreads (441)
What’s inside...
In 'At Night', a sleepless city girl escapes her snug bedroom and snoring family to find solace alone in the cool night air on a rooftop, akin to a serene backyard campout. Through captivating ink-and-watercolor illustrations and soothing lyrical text, newcomer Jonathan Bean creates a charming bedtime fantasy that won the 2008 Boston Globe–Horn Book Award for Picture Books. This story is sure to charm both children and parents alike.
Discussion points
What do you think the little girl in the story feels when she looks out at the night sky?
Can you describe what nighttime looks like in your own words, just like the illustrations in the book?
Why do you think everything is quieter at night?
What are some of the things you like to do before bedtime?
How does the night help everyone and everything get ready for tomorrow?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, use a calm and soothing voice to mirror the peaceful setting of nighttime, making the conversation more relatable.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about nighttime, relating it back to the settings and scenes in 'At Night'.
Make connections between the story and your child’s own bedtime routine to make the themes more relevant and comforting.
Ask your child to draw a picture of a scene from the book, or their own interpretation of nighttime, to deepen their engagement with the book's themes.
Consider reading the book at bedtime, creating a thematic setting which will help to immerse your child in the story's atmosphere.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Bonding
Explanation: In 'At Night,' the young girl finds comfort and a sense of adventure on the rooftop close to her family's apartment, demonstrating the security and peace found in being near loved ones.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to spend quality time with family, engaging in simple activities at home that strengthen familial bonds.
Example Lesson: Imagination and Creativity
Explanation: The protagonist uses her imagination to transform a mundane rooftop into a cozy, exciting space, highlighting the power of creativity to alter one's perspective.
Real-World Application: Encourage children to use their imagination to create their own adventures in familiar spaces, fostering creativity and cognitive development.
Example Lesson: Independence and Self-Confidence
Explanation: The girl's independent venture to the rooftop at night shows her growing autonomy and confidence in her ability to explore and create personal experiences.
Real-World Application: Support children in undertaking small, safe activities on their own to build their confidence and self-reliance.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Nature and Quiet Moments
Explanation: The quiet and serene setting on the rooftop under the stars encourages an appreciation for the natural world and the importance of quiet reflection.
Real-World Application: Instill in children the habit of observing and appreciating their natural environment and finding peaceful moments for reflection.
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness
Explanation: The girl gathers pillows, books, and her cat to create a comfortable space on the roof, showcasing her ability to use available resources to enhance her environment.
Real-World Application: Teach children to think creatively about using resources they have at hand to solve problems or improve their surroundings.