Goodnight, My Angel: A Lullabye (Book & Audio CD) (CD: Goodnight, My Angel)
What’s inside...
In his first book for children, Grammy and Tony Award-winning performer Billy Joel expresses the deep bond between parent and child as a beautiful lullaby. This poignant bedtime book is inspired by the lyrics Billy Joel wrote to his own daughter, Alexa, when she was seven years old. It captures the quiet beauty of the father-daughter relationship as a father puts his daughter to bed and promises to always be in her heart. Illustrated in lustrous pastel colors by award-winning artist Yvonne Gilbert, this book captures the same enduring emotions as the original musical performance by Billy Joel. An exclusive audio CD of the song is included for read-along and bedtime listening.
Age
2-4
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the lullaby in the book make you feel?
Can you think of something that comforts you before bedtime like the lullaby does for the character?
What is your favorite part of our bedtime routine?
If you could write a lullaby, what would it be about?
Why do you think lullabies are important for getting ready for bed?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a soft, soothing voice when discussing the book to mimic the calming effect of a lullaby.
Relate elements of the lullaby to your child's own bedtime routine to make connections between the book and their experiences.
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about bedtime, providing comfort and understanding about their nighttime fears or concerns.
Discuss the importance of sleep and how bedtime routines like lullabies can help in getting a good night's rest.
Invite your child to create their own lullaby, fostering creativity and a personal connection to the routine.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Comfort in Routine
Explanation: The lullaby form of 'Goodnight, My Angel' provides a soothing bedtime routine, reinforcing the calming effect of consistency.
Real-World Application: Children can benefit from establishing a regular bedtime routine, helping them to feel secure and improve their sleep patterns.
Example Lesson: Expression of Love and Support
Explanation: The lyrics convey a parent's enduring love and support, creating a nurturing environment.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of expressing love and reassurance, enhancing emotional bonds with family members.
Example Lesson: Soothing Through Music
Explanation: The integration of a lullaby with the story introduces children to the calming nature of music.
Real-World Application: Children can use music as a relaxation tool to manage stress or discomfort in their daily lives.