Dream Flights on Arctic Nights
What’s inside...
In 'Dream Flights on Arctic Nights,' author Brooke Hartman takes readers on a whimsical journey through the Arctic night sky. With poetic rhymes and vivid illustrations, the book follows a young child as they embark on a magical flight with a silver sled pulled by a team of animals. As they soar through the northern lights and over snowy landscapes, they encounter various Arctic creatures and experience the beauty and wonder of the polar region. The story celebrates imagination, adventure, and the enchanting allure of the Arctic's natural phenomena, making it a captivating bedtime tale for children.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the boy felt as he explored the Arctic night in his dream? What makes you say that?
Which Arctic animal from the book would you like to learn more about, and why?
What do you think is the importance of dreams after reading the story?
How does the author use the illustrations to tell the story of the Arctic nights?
If you could have a dream adventure like the boy, where would you go and what would you do?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the conversation by sharing your favorite part of the story or illustration and ask your child about theirs.
Encourage your child to describe the Arctic setting using their own words, fostering their expressive language skills.
Ask questions that connect the story to your child’s experiences, such as relating their own dreams to the adventures of the boy in the book.
Use the book’s vivid illustrations to engage the child’s observation skills, prompting them to point out details and ask questions about the images.
Discuss the emotions depicted in the book and relate them to real-life scenarios to develop empathy and understanding with your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Imagination and Creativity
Explanation: The story takes readers on a magical Arctic adventure where animals and natural phenomena are depicted in fantastical ways, encouraging children to stretch their imaginations.
Real-World Application: Children can use the imaginative scenarios from the book as a foundation for creative play, art projects, or storytelling in their daily life, fostering creativity and original thinking.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness
Explanation: Set in the Arctic, the book introduces children to elements of the indigenous cultures and the unique wildlife of the region, promoting an understanding of diverse environments and ways of life.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect cultural differences and environmental preservation, which are crucial for fostering empathy and global awareness from a young age.
Example Lesson: Bravery and Exploration
Explanation: The protagonist’s journey through the Arctic night embodies themes of bravery and the spirit of exploration, facing the unknown with courage.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to be curious and courageous in new situations, whether trying out a new activity or making new friends, reinforcing the importance of personal growth and resilience.
Example Lesson: The Beauty of Nature
Explanation: Vivid illustrations and lyrical descriptions celebrate the natural beauty of the Arctic, developing an appreciation for the environment.
Real-World Application: This sense of wonderment about the natural world can lead to outdoor activities, environmental conservation efforts, and a lifelong respect for nature.
Example Lesson: The Joy of Shared Experiences
Explanation: The narrator shares the Arctic adventure with various animals, emphasizing the value and enjoyment of shared experiences and teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of cooperation and sharing moments with others, which can enhance their social interactions and team-building skills in school and other social settings.