On Angel Wings
on Goodreads (150)
What’s inside...
A young boy gets his wish after the other shepherds leave him behind in this golden, heartwarming holiday tale from a leading author and illustrator. "I bring you news of great joy. For tonight, in Bethlehem, a child has been born, a savior who is Christ the Lord." When the shepherds are invited to follow the star to visit the child, one young boy is told to stay and mind the flock. But the Angel Gabriel returns for him, taking the boy on a magical, memorable flight to be the first to witness the Christmas miracle. With a gently wry narration by Michael Morpurgo and expressive illustrations by the extraordinary Quentin Blake, this inviting, uplifting story is destined to become a holiday tradition.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-5
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it felt like for the boy in the story to fly with the angels?
Why do you think the angels chose to visit the shepherd boy?
How do you think the boy's experience with the angels changed him?
What would you do if you were given a chance to deliver a special message like the boy in the story?
How did the story make you feel when the family was reunited?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressions and voice modulation to reflect the wonder and excitement of flying with angels as you read the story aloud.
After reading the story, ask your child to draw a scene from the book that they found most magical and discuss why they chose it.
Connect the story’s themes to your child's life by asking how they feel during special family gatherings or events, similar to the family gathering in the book.
Discuss the concept of kindness and the importance of messages, exploring how words can make people feel happy and loved, as reflected in the story.
Encourage empathy by discussing the emotions of different characters in the book and asking your child how they would feel in similar situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of family and togetherness
Explanation: In 'On Angel Wings,' the family gathers to hear the story of the nativity, showcasing the value of family traditions and collective storytelling.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and participate in family gatherings and shared experiences, strengthening familial bonds.
Example Lesson: Courage and faith
Explanation: The protagonist, a young boy, is chosen by an angel to visit the newborn Christ, illustrating courage in the face of unexpected journeys and faith in new experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to embrace new opportunities and face challenges with bravery, understanding that growth often comes from stepping out of one's comfort zone.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: The story reveals the kindness of the wise men and the humility of the shepherds, teaching the virtues of empathy by considering others' perspectives and situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be considerate and compassionate towards all, regardless of their social status or background.
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: The gifts given to the newborn by visitors symbolize the joy and love associated with giving, rather than receiving.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of generosity and the positive feelings associated with giving to others, promoting altruistic behavior.