In November
What’s inside...
In November, the air grows cold and the earth and all of its creatures prepare for winter. Animals seek food and shelter. And people gather together to celebrate their blessings with family and friends. Cynthia Rylant's lyrical language and Jill Kastner's rich, cozy paintings capture the cherished moments of this autumn month--the moments we spend together and the ones we witness in the world around us.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
26 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways the animals in the book prepare for winter? How do you think they feel about the changing season?
How does the author describe the landscape in November? Can you picture it? What's your favorite part?
What traditions does the family in the book have for celebrating Thanksgiving? How are they similar or different from our traditions?
Why do you think it's important to spend time with family and friends in November?
How do the illustrations help tell the story of November? Which picture is your favorite and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child to describe their favorite scene or character from the book to get them thinking about the story.
Encourage your child to compare their own experiences in November with those depicted in the book, fostering a deeper connection to the text.
Discuss the book’s themes of change and gratitude. Ask your child what they are thankful for and how they can show gratitude towards others.
Use the illustrations in the book as a talking point, asking your child to describe what they see and how the pictures make them feel.
After reading, consider crafting a family tradition inspired by the book, such as a nature walk to see the changing seasons, enhancing the reading experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation for nature and its cycles
Explanation: The book 'In November' beautifully illustrates the changes in nature during the month of November, such as leaves falling and animals preparing for winter.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to observe and appreciate the seasonal changes around them, fostering a lifelong respect and curiosity for the natural world.
Example Lesson: Understanding of time and seasons
Explanation: Cynthia Rylant uses the transformation seen in November to teach about the progression of seasons, and the concept of time as it relates to the natural world.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to mark time by observing the changes in their own environment and understanding the cyclical nature of life.
Example Lesson: Value of reflection and preparation
Explanation: The book highlights how animals and nature prepare for the coming winter during November, which serves as a metaphor for being reflective and making preparations.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of planning and preparing for upcoming events or changes in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Embracing change
Explanation: In narrating the transition from autumn to winter, the story embraces the continual change inherent in life.
Real-World Application: This can help children accept and even embrace changes in their lives, understanding them as natural and necessary.