Brother Sun, Sister Moon: The Life and Stories of St. Francis
What’s inside...
Margaret Mayo's charming, simple narrative tells the whole of St Francis's life story, interspersed with the legends about him and his own beautiful verse in praise of creation. Peter Malone complements the story with pictures of medieval Italy. A fascinating glimpse into the life of St. Francis of Assisi details his childhood, his dedication to helping the poor and outcasts of society, and his partnership with Clare, a noblewoman who was known as Sister Moon to Francis's Brother Sun and includes the many amazing tales that were told about him.
Age
10-12
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made St. Francis care so deeply about animals and nature?
How can we, like St. Francis, show kindness to all living things?
What did you learn about the way St. Francis lived that you find inspiring or unusual?
Why do you think it’s important to share and help others, as demonstrated by St. Francis in the stories?
How did the illustrations help you understand the story of St. Francis better?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the importance of empathy and kindness by relating the stories to their everyday life.
Discuss the moral lessons in the stories and ask your child how they might apply these lessons in their own interactions.
Use the book’s artwork to deepen the discussion, asking your child to describe how the colors and styles make them feel about the story.
Give personal examples of acts of kindness and ask your child if they have experienced or can think of similar instances.
Praise your child’s thoughts and answers to foster confidence and a love for sharing their opinions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Compassion and Empathy
Explanation: The story of St. Francis emphasizes his kindness to both people and animals, showcasing his ability to empathize with all living beings.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to understand and share the feelings of others, fostering a nurturing environment at home and school.
Example Lesson: Simplicity and Contentment
Explanation: St. Francis is portrayed living a simple life without material excess, finding joy in nature and spiritual fulfillment.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate what they have and find happiness in non-materialistic pleasures.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: The bond that St. Francis shares with nature and animals in the book highlights the importance of respecting and protecting the environment.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take care of their surroundings and understand the impact of their actions on the ecosystem.
Example Lesson: Importance of Peace
Explanation: St. Francis is known for his message of peace, as demonstrated through his gentle and non-violent approach in the stories.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to resolve conflicts peacefully and to contribute to a harmonious environment.