Here Comes the Year
illustrations by
on Goodreads (18)
What’s inside...
Describes in rhyme the special qualities that characterize each month of the year. A poetic introduction to a year and the seasons, the book personifies each month, inviting readers on a journey through the changing weather. The soothing words of Eileen Spinelli and inviting illustrations by Keiko Narahashi make the ups and downs of the weather something to savor rather than endure, as each month arrives and is a pleasure to meet.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some special moments you remember from this past year?
How do you think the characters felt during their adventures in the book?
What new things would you like to learn or try this year?
If you could add your own month to the year, what would it be called and why?
How do you think celebrating the year helps us grow and learn?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own memories and thoughts about the year with your child, creating a comfortable space for them to open up. Use the book as a mirror to reflect on your child's past experiences and their aspirations for the new year. Encourage your child to imagine and explore their own ideas by asking what they would change or add to their year. Emphasize the importance of growth, learning, and celebrating milestones, both big and small. Remember to listen actively, showing enthusiasm and interest in their thoughts and feelings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the concept of time
Explanation: This book takes young readers through the months of the year, illustrating how each month is different and has its own unique events and milestones.
Real-World Application: Children can begin to grasp the sequence of months and associate specific times of the year with holidays, seasons, and personal events like birthdays, helping them organize and anticipate upcoming events.
Example Lesson: Appreciating cultural diversity
Explanation: As the book explores various months, it also highlights different cultural celebrations and traditions, teaching children about the diversity in ways people celebrate and live throughout the year.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to show respect and curiosity about different cultures in their community and beyond.
Example Lesson: Seasonal changes and nature
Explanation: The book describes how nature changes with the seasons, from winter snow to spring flowers, summer sun, and autumn leaves.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to observe and appreciate the natural world around them, understanding the environmental changes and their impact.
Example Lesson: Learning through patterns
Explanation: Highlighting the repetitive cycle of months and associated activities, the book instills an understanding of patterns and sequences in young readers.
Real-World Application: Recognizing and predicting patterns helps children in developing logical thinking and mathematical concepts.