Goodnight Ganesha
illustrations by
on Goodreads (235)
What’s inside...
A gorgeously illustrated goodnight story that celebrates the nighttime rituals of two young children visiting their grandparents in India. As nighttime falls over the city, two children visiting their grandparents in India find there's so much fun to be had! Whether it's listening to epic stories or observing rituals in the puja room, there are many moments that make this time together special. In this beautiful, rhyming ode to bedtime, the only thing more universal than getting ready for bed and saying goodnight is the love between children and their grandparents. Nadia Salomon's Goodnight Ganesha reminds readers that saying goodnight is both universal and unique and that all children deserve bedtime books that reflect their experiences and culture. A pair of parallel poems, both steeped in references to India and Hinduism, form this stunningly illustrated tribute to family rituals with gorgeous, classically stylized art. Contemporary Hindu families will love the culturally specific details, while cultural outsiders will appreciate the universality of a bedtime routine.
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Child 1
Child 2
Grandfather
Grandma
Discussion points
What do you think Ganesha was dreaming about in the story?
How do the colorful illustrations make you feel as we read through the book?
Can you describe how the relationship between the characters in the book makes you feel?
What was your favorite part of the bedtime routine in the story and why?
How do you think saying goodnight in the story is similar or different to your bedtime?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive tones while reading to emphasize the soothing and calming aspects of the book, making bedtime a more enjoyable experience.
Encourage children to describe the illustrations, boosting their imagination and understanding of the story.
Discuss the cultural elements in the book to broaden your child’s world view and understanding of diversity.
Connect the bedtime routine in the story with your child’s routine to make the reading more relatable and engaging.
After reading, ask your child to imagine their own ending or what might happen next, fostering creativity and curiosity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing multiculturalism
Explanation: Goodnight Ganesha portrays the culture and traditions of India, fostering cultural awareness and appreciation.
Real-World Application: Children learn to respect and show interest in different cultures, enhancing social harmony and global understanding.
Example Lesson: Importance of family bonding
Explanation: The story illustrates a warm family environment where stories are shared, promoting the significance of family closeness.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to spend quality time with family, strengthening family relationships.
Example Lesson: Value of bedtime rituals
Explanation: Goodnight Ganesha depicts a soothing bedtime routine that aids in relaxing children before sleep.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of a consistent nighttime routine, aiding in better sleep and daily structure.
Example Lesson: Nurturing imagination
Explanation: The book uses vibrant illustrations and storytelling to spark the imagination.
Real-World Application: Stimulates creative thinking and imagination in children, which can enhance problem-solving skills and creative expression.
Example Lesson: Peace and mindfulness
Explanation: Through the serene narrative, the book conveys a sense of peace and mindfulness.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to practice mindfulness and tranquility in everyday situations, promoting mental well-being.