My Father's World (Music to See!)
illustrations by
on Goodreads (4)
What’s inside...
This book is about a father who shares his love of music with his young daughter through listening to records together. It explores different musical styles and the visual art on album covers. Additionally, it celebrates the wonders of God's creations through illustrations of two hymns. The picture book also celebrates the diversity of God's creation through the lyrics of two beloved hymns: 'This is My Father's World' and 'All Things Bright and Beautiful.' The story shows that God's love and care cover the entire world, including children from other lands and cultures.
Discussion points
What colors and shapes can you see in the pictures? How do they make you feel?
How do you think the music in the story affects the world around the characters?
Can you imagine what the music sounds like? What instruments would you hear?
Why do you think the author chose to show music in such a visual way?
How does the story make you feel about the relationship between the father and child?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express themselves by describing the artwork in their own words, which helps develop their vocabulary and observational skills.
Discuss the emotional impact of music and art, fostering empathy and emotional intelligence.
Let your child imagine and describe their own musical world, enhancing their creativity and ability to think abstractly.
Connect the story to your child’s experiences by discussing times when music has influenced their mood or environment.
After reading, listen to music together and discuss how it makes you both feel, tying back to the themes of the book and building your relationship through shared experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Diversity
Explanation: The book portrays various cultural and musical traditions, showcasing a wide array of instruments and styles from around the world.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect diverse cultures and backgrounds, fostering a sense of global citizenship.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Bonding
Explanation: The narrative centers around a child exploring music with their father, depicting strong family ties and shared experiences.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to spend quality time with family members, engaging in activities that strengthen their bonds.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Self-Expression
Explanation: The book illustrates the joy of creating and enjoying music, encouraging children to express themselves through art.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to explore their own creative interests, be it in music, art, or any form of self-expression.
Example Lesson: Learning through Observation
Explanation: As the child in the story observes and listens to their father play music, they learn and absorb information actively.
Real-World Application: Promotes active learning and observation skills in children, which they can use in educational settings and daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Historical and Cultural Awareness
Explanation: The musical elements in the book are tied to their cultural origins, providing historical context.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the historical and cultural significance of music, enhancing their educational depth and awareness.