Peace at Last
on Goodreads (5,005)
What’s inside...
Peace at Last' by Jill Murphy is a children's book that tells the story of Mr. Bear who struggles to find a quiet place to sleep. Throughout the night, he is disturbed by various noises in the house, including Mrs. Bear's snoring, the ticking of the clock, and the dripping of a leaky faucet. He moves from room to room, even trying to sleep in the car, but is continuously thwarted in his quest for silence. Eventually, as the morning arrives, Mr. Bear finally finds peace and falls asleep, only to be woken up by the alarm clock. Despite his exhausting night, the story ends on a humorous note as the family starts their day, unaware of Mr. Bear's nighttime adventures.
Why read this book
- Captivating story of seeking peace and quiet.
- Highlights the importance of patience and perseverance.
- Encourages empathy through Mr. Bear's nighttime journey.
- Engaging illustrations complement the soothing narrative.
Age
2-6
Length
36 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Mr. Bear
Discussion points
Why do you think Mr. Bear couldn't sleep? How do you think he felt?
What are some things that help you fall asleep when you're having trouble?
How did the different sounds in the house affect Mr. Bear? What sounds do you like or dislike when trying to sleep?
What could Mr. Bear have done differently to find peace and quiet?
How did Mrs. Bear and Baby Bear react to Mr. Bear’s trouble sleeping? Why is it important to be understanding?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a soothing tone to discuss the different scenarios of Mr. Bear's sleepless night, mirroring the calming theme the book aims to present.
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they would feel in Mr. Bear’s situation, enhancing emotional understanding.
Before reading, whisper the title 'Peace at Last', emphasizing the concept of rest and quiet, setting a serene scene for the storytelling.
Relate the story to personal experiences by sharing your own strategies or family techniques for a good night's sleep.
After discussing the questions, encourage your child to draw a picture of where they think Mr. Bear could have gone for peace and quiet.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance and problem-solving
Explanation: Mr. Bear struggles to find a quiet place to sleep throughout the night, demonstrating persistence in face of discomfort.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of persistence and trying different solutions when faced with difficulties, such as settling in for bedtime or coping with noise.
Example Lesson: Understanding and empathy
Explanation: The story highlights the importance of considering how others feel, as Mr. Bear’s quest for sleep affects the entire family.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by recognizing the impact of their actions on others and developing empathy towards family members and peers.
Example Lesson: Importance of a good night’s sleep
Explanation: Throughout the book, the consequences of lack of sleep are evident as Mr. Bear grows increasingly tired, emphasizing the benefits of rest.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the significance of sleep for health and well-being, encouraging them to establish good bedtime routines.
Example Lesson: Creative thinking
Explanation: Mr. Bear uses various strategies to try and find a peaceful place to sleep, showcasing his adaptability and creative problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to think creatively when faced with challenges, like finding a quiet space for homework or play.