Once Upon Our Planet: Rewild bedtime with 12 stories
What’s inside...
From the internationally best-selling storyteller, Vita Murrow, this illustrated treasury brings together a dozen original stories set in some of the last true wildernesses in the world, from the Arctic to the Amazon. Weaving established mythology with original storytelling, these epic earth-centric tales explore the complex bond between humankind and Planet Earth. Each story is set in a diverse location under pressure from climate change and is thoughtfully paired with contemporary, folky illustrations by fashionable illustrator Aitch. Aitch's previous clients include Soho House, Google and L’Occitane.
Age
8-12
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite story from the book and why did it stand out to you?
If you could visit one of the places mentioned in the stories, where would you go and what would you do there?
How do you think taking care of our planet helps the animals and plants in the stories?
Can you think of ways we can help our environment, like the characters in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts freely without interrupting, showing interest and affirming their ideas. Use the stories as a springboard to talk about nature and the importance of conservation, drawing parallels with your child’s surroundings. After discussing their favorite story, you might suggest drawing a scene from it or creating a small project that reflects the book’s themes. This keeps the conversation fun and interactive, deepening their understanding and appreciation of the stories.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Environmental stewardship
Explanation: The book features stories that weave important themes about taking care of our environment and the creatures within it.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of conservation and can apply these lessons by engaging in recycling, conserving water, and participating in local clean-up events.
Example Lesson: Empathy for animals
Explanation: Stories within the book encourage understanding and compassion towards animals, showcasing the world from various animal perspectives.
Real-World Application: Kids can relate this to their everyday interactions with animals, promoting kind treatment and understanding of pets and wildlife.
Example Lesson: Importance of biodiversity
Explanation: Through its tales, the book highlights how different species play a role in the health of our planet.
Real-World Application: Children are taught to appreciate and value diverse forms of life, which may lead to an interest in biology or environmental sciences.
Example Lesson: Resilience and adaptation
Explanation: Characters in the stories often face and overcome environmental challenges, embodying resilience.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be resilient in the face of personal challenges, whether they are environmental, academic, or social.
Example Lesson: Creativity and problem-solving
Explanation: Each story engages children with creative solutions to restore balance in nature.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think creatively in their daily problem-solving, promoting innovative thinking and proactive approaches.