The Cat at Night
What’s inside...
In 'The Cat at Night' by Dahlov Ipcar, readers follow a farm cat's exploration through various landscapes during a night. The book contrasts the nocturnal world from the cat's perspective with the diurnal world from a human's view, showcasing nocturnal creatures and the cat's keen senses through vivid, colorful illustrations. This 1969 children's classic, re-released in a golden jubilee edition, includes additional commentary from Dahlov's biographer about her children's books.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
1-3
Length
56 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the cat sees in the dark that we might not see during the day?
How do you feel when you're exploring something new, like the cat at night?
What are some of the differences between the cat's world at night and the world we see during the day?
Why do you think the cat goes out at night instead of during the day?
If you were the cat, what places would you explore at night?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine and describe a night-time adventure they would like to embark on, similar to the cat's journey in the book.
Talk about the sensory details in the book—what the cat might hear, see, or smell at night— and ask your child to compare these with their own nighttime experiences.
Discuss the concept of nocturnal animals and their unique adaptations that help them thrive in the dark, enhancing the educational value of the reading experience.
Create a safe, cozy reading environment that mimics night time, using dim lights and soft cushions, to make the discussion about the book's setting more relatable and immersive.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Different Perspectives
Explanation: The story portrays the world through the eyes of a cat during the night, showing how the same environment can look different.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of considering different viewpoints and enhances their empathy towards others' experiences.
Example Lesson: Exploration and Curiosity
Explanation: The cat's adventure at night encourages exploring new environments and learning from them.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore, ask questions, and learn about the world around them, fostering a sense of curiosity and discovery.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Nature
Explanation: The cat interacts with various elements in nature during its journey, showing a harmonious relationship with its surroundings.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of the environment and promote outdoor activities which respect and preserve nature.
Example Lesson: Bravery and Confidence
Explanation: The cat fearlessly navigates the nighttime world, demonstrating confidence in unfamiliar settings.
Real-World Application: It can inspire children to face new challenges confidently and with a positive attitude, knowing that new experiences are opportunities for growth.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The imaginative portrayal of night seen through a cat's eyes can inspire creative thinking.
Real-World Application: Children learn to use their imagination to visualize and understand concepts, enhancing their creative and cognitive skills.