Sector 7
on Goodreads (5,409)
What’s inside...
The Caldecott Honor–winning adventure of a young boy and a mischievous cloud in a funny, touching story about art, friendship, and the weather by three-time Caldecott Medalist David Wiesner. Only the person who gave us Tuesday could have devised this fantastic Caldecott Honor–winning tale, which begins with a school trip to the Empire State Building. There a boy makes friends with a mischievous little cloud, who whisks him away to the Cloud Dispatch Center for Sector 7 (the region that includes New York City). The clouds are bored with their everyday shapes, so the boy obligingly starts to sketch some new ones. The wordless yet eloquent account of this unparalleled adventure is a funny, touching story about art, friendship, and the weather, as well as a visual tour de force.
Age
4-8
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The Boy
The Cloud
The Cloud Caretaker
Discussion points
What do you think the clouds in Sector 7 could create next?
How do you feel when you're creating something new, like the characters in the book?
Why do you think the main character wanted to change the way the clouds looked?
What would you do if you were in charge of the weather for a day?
How do you think teamwork helped in creating shapes in the clouds?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child to describe their favorite part of the book, encouraging them to think about the details in the illustrations and the story. Share your own thoughts about the book's themes, such as creativity and imagination, to model thoughtful engagement. Encourage your child to draw or create their version of a cloud shape they would like to see in the sky, linking it back to the story. Discuss the importance of following one’s ideas and being innovative, drawing parallels to real-life situations. Use the story as a way to discuss weather and the science behind cloud formation, extending the learning beyond the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: In 'Sector 7', the narrative revolves around a boy who visits the Cloud Dispatch Center, where he creatively rearranges the clouds in the sky. This aspect of the story emphasizes the power of imagination and creative thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in creative activities such as drawing, building, or storytelling, encouraging them to think outside the box and express themselves artistically.
Example Lesson: Collaboration and Teamwork
Explanation: The boy works together with the clouds to change the weather patterns. This collaboration highlights the importance of teamwork and cooperating with others to achieve a common goal.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child's everyday life during group activities at school or play, teaching them to value others' input and work together effectively.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The story presents challenges that the boy and the clouds must overcome by thinking critically and creatively. This teaches children the significance of problem solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children can use problem solving skills in their daily life to navigate challenges, make decisions, and find solutions to conflicts or puzzles.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: Despite initial challenges, the boy persists in his creative endeavors with the clouds, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to keep trying and persisting through difficulties in learning new skills or completing tasks at home or school.