Daisy’s Big Night
#3 of 8 in Daisy the Duckling Series
What’s inside...
The third addition to the illustrated chapter book series about word-loving Daisy, 'Daisy's Big Night' follows Daisy as she faces a dilemma about what to exhibit at her class's end-of-the-school-year Student Showcase night. An invitation to a grown-up poetry party sets off a series of events that lead Daisy to realize that the perfect solution to her problem has been with her all along in her green notebook filled with her favorite words. Author Sandra V. Feder has created a likable, enthusiastic character that early readers will be drawn to, and as Daisy ventures into the world of poetry, they'll happily follow along. The book provides easy-to-understand explanations of various poetry forms, making it an excellent resource for a unit on poetry or a celebration of poetry month. The inclusion of Daisy's Wonderful Word Lists at the end offers a great starting point for students to begin their own lists of words. The book is illustrated with just enough line drawings by Susan Mitchell to keep young readers engaged.
Discussion points
What do you think inspired Daisy to organize a poetry night?
How did Daisy and her friends work together to make the event successful?
What challenges did Daisy face and how did she overcome them?
Which poem was your favorite and why?
How did the poetry night change the way the characters felt about poetry or each other?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own favorite poem and asking your child what they like about poetry.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and ask your child about times they have had to work with others to achieve a goal.
Encourage your child to talk about any challenges they face in their own activities and how they might handle them, drawing parallels to Daisy's experiences.
After reading, consider hosting a family poetry night where everyone shares a poem they enjoy or have written.
Ask your child to create their own poem about a topic they are passionate about, fostering a deeper connection to the themes of the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and self-expression
Explanation: Daisy’s Big Night showcases Daisy using her creativity to write poems for a school event, encouraging her peers to engage in creative activities.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to explore their own forms of artistic expression, whether through writing, drawing, or other creative outlets, enhancing their imaginative skills.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and resilience
Explanation: Daisy faces challenges while preparing for the night but continues to push forward, showing determination.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of perseverance when faced with difficulties, teaching them to not give up easily in their endeavors, be it academic or personal.
Example Lesson: Collaboration and teamwork
Explanation: The story highlights Daisy working together with her friends to make the event successful, emphasizing the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to collaborate with others, understanding that teamwork can lead to achieving great results, whether on school projects or in group play.
Example Lesson: Confidence and public speaking
Explanation: Daisy overcomes her nervousness to speak and perform in front of an audience, gaining confidence.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children develop their public speaking skills and boost their confidence when speaking or performing in front of others.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for literature
Explanation: Through Daisy’s journey and the poetry event, the book fosters a love for reading and writing among young readers.
Real-World Application: Children are motivated to read and perhaps write their own stories or poems, cultivating a lasting interest and appreciation for literature.