George and His Nighttime Friends
What’s inside...
George learns to overcome his fear of the dark with the help of his new nighttime friends, an ensemble of endearing animals rendered in celebrated illustrator Seng Soun Ratanavanh's wondrous, dreamy style. In his cozy house on his cozy street, George slips into bed, but sleep will not come. He is afraid of the dark and wishes for even one small nighttime friend to help him. When a little mouse appears, a night of adventure begins. George meets new friends, like a piano-playing bunny with stage fright and a penguin afraid of water. He learns that everyone has fears, and good nighttime friends can help you overcome them all—and have fun along the way! Each page is filled with stunning, vibrant details perfect for an imaginative bedtime story. Fans of the Miyuki series will be delighted to discover this new classic, for the first time both written and illustrated by Seng Soun Ratanavanh.
Discussion points
What do you think George feels when he meets his nighttime friends?
How do the nighttime friends help George in the story?
Can you imagine having your own nighttime friends? What would they be like?
Why do you think the author chose nighttime for George's adventure?
How do you feel about bedtime after hearing George’s story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive read-aloud techniques to emphasize the mysterious and magical elements of the nighttime.
Encourage your child to draw their imaginary nighttime friends and describe what makes them special.
Discuss the feelings associated with nighttime and darkness, and how friendship and imagination can transform those feelings.
Link the story to your child’s bedtime routine, discussing how their own room could be a magical place like George's.
Ask your child to predict what could happen next if the story continued, fostering their creativity and narrative skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: In 'George and His Nighttime Friends', George learns to understand and relate to the emotions of the creatures he encounters during the night, which nurtures a sense of empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can use this lesson to better understand and respond to the feelings and needs of their peers and family members, fostering a caring and inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing the unknown
Explanation: George shows bravery as he explores unknown aspects of his nighttime world and meets new friends, teaching children that it's okay to confront what initially scares them.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson in their lives by approaching new experiences—such as starting at a new school or trying a new activity—with an open and brave heart.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity
Explanation: Throughout the book, George's curiosity leads him to learn more about his surroundings and the nocturnal animals, highlighting the benefits of seeking knowledge.
Real-World Application: This underscores for children the importance of asking questions and exploring their world, which can lead to better learning and understanding both academically and socially.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: George's adventures at night are portrayed with a creative twist, encouraging children to think creatively and imagine the endless possibilities in the world around them.
Real-World Application: By applying creativity and imagination, children can find unique solutions to problems and express themselves in diverse and personal ways.
Example Lesson: Friendship and building relationships
Explanation: As George interacts with various creatures, he forms unexpected friendships, demonstrating the value of being open to relationships with those who are different.
Real-World Application: Children learn that friendship can emerge in unexpected places and that being open to building relationships with diverse individuals enriches their social experiences.