Garland Of Lights: A Diwali Story
not part of a series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
The book follows the story of a young child who prepares to celebrate the Indian festival of Diwali. Through the process of decorating the house, making sweets, and lighting lamps, the child learns about the significance of the festival and the cultural traditions involved. One lamp welcomes the goddess of wealth.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
0-5
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways the characters in the story celebrate Diwali? How do we celebrate it in our family?
Why do you think lighting lamps is important during Diwali?
How did the characters feel during the celebration? Can you share a time when you felt similar?
What did you learn about the significance of Diwali from this story?
How can we bring the spirit of Diwali into our everyday life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Set a cozy reading environment that mirrors the warm and festive theme of Diwali. Maybe light a lamp or a candle while reading to make the experience immersive.
Encourage your child to relate personal experiences with the festival to the story. Sharing family customs can deepen their connection to the book’s themes.
After reading the book, ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character. This helps reinforce their understanding and retention of the story.
Discuss the moral and cultural values portrayed in the story, relating them to family values and practices to instill a deeper understanding and appreciation.
Plan a family activity inspired by the book, like making DIY lanterns, to bring the story to life and create memorable learning experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Cultural Diversity
Explanation: In 'Garland of Lights: A Diwali Story,' children are introduced to the vibrant festival of Diwali as celebrated in Indian culture. The story presents customs, foods, and decorations unique to this celebration.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect cultural differences they encounter in their schools or communities. Recognizing the beauty in diversity can foster a more inclusive and harmonious environment.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Traditions
Explanation: The book illustrates how the family comes together to prepare for Diwali, highlighting activities such as cooking traditional dishes and decorating the home. These shared experiences are depicted as joyful and bonding.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of maintaining and respecting family traditions. Participating in family customs can strengthen familial bonds and create cherished memories.
Example Lesson: Significance of Generosity and Gratitude
Explanation: The story emphasizes the importance of sharing and giving during the festival, as the characters distribute sweets and gifts to friends and neighbors, reflecting the spirit of generosity associated with Diwali.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to practice generosity not just during special occasions but as a part of daily life. It helps them develop a sense of empathy and gratitude towards others.
Example Lesson: Value of Teamwork
Explanation: As the family in the story works together to prepare for Diwali, children see the benefits of cooperation and shared effort. Everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, contributes in some way.
Real-World Application: This can be applied in a child’s life by encouraging teamwork in school projects, sports, and household chores, teaching them that collective efforts can lead to great results.
Example Lesson: Understanding of Good Triumphing over Evil
Explanation: The narrative of 'Garland Of Lights' reflects on the deeper meaning of Diwali—the victory of light over darkness, good over evil. This theme is central to the story and is presented through dialogues and imagery.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to apply this concept by facing personal challenges with courage and integrity, knowing that good choices bring positive outcomes.