Fiona Loves the Night
What’s inside...
When nighttime comes, Fiona steps outside into her garden to view the natural beauty and wonderful creatures, including the Luna moth and bright fireflies, that can only be viewed and appreciated in the dark of night. 45,000 first printing.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-6
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Fiona loves most about the night?
How do the descriptions of the night change throughout the book? What are some of your favorite night-time sounds or sights?
Why do you think the author chose to have Fiona explore the night? What does the night represent?
Can you imagine what it would be like to see the things Fiona saw? What would you want to explore at night?
How do you feel about the night after reading this book? Has it changed your thoughts or feelings about the dark?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the night before and after reading the book. This helps in understanding their perceptions and any changes brought by the story.
Discuss the sensory descriptions used in the book—such as sights, sounds, and smells of the night. Ask your child what they can relate to or what excites them about the night.
You can relate the exploratory aspect of the book to your child's own experiences or desires of exploring. Talk about what they might discover on a night-time adventure in your own neighborhood.
Post-reading, engage in a creative activity like drawing a scene from the book or writing a short narrative about what they would love to explore at night, similar to Fiona's adventures.
Reassure them about any fears of the dark and emphasize the peaceful and beautiful aspects of the night as portrayed in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity about the natural world
Explanation: Fiona explores the nighttime world, engaging with various nocturnal creatures and plants, showcasing her wonder and curiosity.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore and ask questions about their surroundings, promoting a love for nature and science.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for beauty in everyday life
Explanation: The book describes the night using poetic language and evocative illustrations, encouraging an appreciation for its beauty.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to notice and appreciate the beauty in less obvious places and everyday occurrences around them.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing the unknown
Explanation: Despite the darkness, Fiona confidently explores the night, showing bravery in a situation that might initially seem scary.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to face new or unfamiliar situations with courage, understanding that fear is a natural part of new experiences.
Example Lesson: Importance of observation
Explanation: Fiona’s journey highlights the importance of observing small details in the natural world, like the light of fireflies or the sound of crickets.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to develop their observational skills, which can enhance their attention to detail and concentration.