The Cinder-Eyed Cats
What’s inside...
From the creator of the Caldecott Honor winner Time Flies, here’s a little boy’s journey to a tropical dream world. Magnificent oil paintings and rhyming text bring to life a mysterious island where cinder-eyed cats move like shadows, boats float above the ocean, whales fly across the dawn sky, and a parade of fish dances in the light of a campfire.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the magical cats make the boy feel? Can you think of a time when something unexpectedly wonderful happened to you?
What do the islands represent in the story? How does exploring new places make you feel?
If you could talk to the sea creatures in the book, what would you ask them?
Why do you think the boy was the only one who could see the cats? What special qualities do you think he had?
What lesson do you think we can learn from the boy’s adventure?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to visualize the mystical world described. Ask them to draw or describe their own magical island.
Connect the story to personal experiences. Share a story about a time when you encountered something unexpected and how it made you feel.
Discuss the emotions depicted in the book. Ask your child how they think the boy felt throughout his journey and relate those feelings to real-life scenarios.
Highlight the themes of curiosity and bravery. Discuss with your child how being curious and brave can lead to wonderful experiences.
After reading, encourage your child to imagine a continuation of the story. Ask them what adventures they think the boy and the cats might go on next.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Exploring the importance of curiosity and adventure
Explanation: In 'The Cinder-Eyed Cats,' the protagonist discovers unique cats on a mysterious island, sparking a night of magical adventures. This narrative emphasizes the rewards of curiosity and the joy of exploration.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to engage in exploratory play, ask questions, and learn about the world around them, which can foster a lifelong love for learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: Value of compassion and kindness
Explanation: As the protagonist interacts gently with the mystical creatures, the story illustrates the impact of kindness towards others, regardless of their differences.
Real-World Application: This can be mirrored in a child's approach to new faces and environments, promoting inclusiveness and empathy in their interactions with peers.
Example Lesson: Understanding and accepting the unknown
Explanation: The story’s adventure into a dream-like island filled with unknown creatures teaches children that the unfamiliar isn't always to be feared but can be a source of wonderment.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to approach new experiences, like starting at a new school or meeting new people, with an open heart and mind, reducing anxiety and increasing adaptability.
Example Lesson: Importance of using imagination
Explanation: The whimsical elements and fantastical settings in the book serve as a canvas for children to paint their imaginative ideas and learn to think creatively.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their imagination in play and problem solving, leading to innovative thinking and better cognitive development.