The Light Inside
on Goodreads (161)
What’s inside...
The Light Inside tells the moving tale of a protagonist on a self-discovery journey, gaining inner strength, friendships, and understanding of the world. Additionally, a timid jack-o'-lantern embarks on a spooky forest adventure to rescue its favorite toy, facing fears and finding courage within.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think 'The Light Inside' means in the story?
How do you feel when you help someone else?
Can you think of a time when you felt a light inside you?
Why is it important to be kind to others?
What are some ways you can show kindness to your friends or family?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their personal experiences by sharing how helping others has made them feel.
Highlight moments in the story where characters demonstrate kindness, and discuss the importance of these actions with your child.
Ask your child to draw a picture of a scene where they felt a 'light inside' them, which can help them express their feelings and thoughts visually.
Create a 'kindness challenge' where you and your child come up with ways to show kindness to others throughout the week, inspired by the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'The Light Inside,' the protagonist learns to understand and empathize with characters who are different from themselves. This is demonstrated as they navigate through various challenges and realize the perspectives and feelings of others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to recognize and respect the feelings and viewpoints of their peers and family members, fostering a more compassionate environment.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Explanation: The story showcases the protagonist overcoming obstacles with determination and courage. This aspect is vividly portrayed through their journey, emphasizing the power of persistence.
Real-World Application: Kids can mirror this resilience in their daily challenges, whether in solving a difficult puzzle, learning a new skill, or managing disagreements with friends.
Example Lesson: Importance of Inner Strength
Explanation: The book highlights the concept that true strength comes from within. The protagonist discovers their inner light, realizing that self-confidence and inner peace are key to facing external challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to cultivate self-esteem and self-reliance, understanding that these qualities are important when they face their own personal challenges.
Example Lesson: The Value of Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The main character's journey is sparked by curiosity and a desire to explore the unknown, which leads to significant personal growth and learning.
Real-World Application: This lesson can motivate children to explore new subjects, ask questions, and engage deeply in their learning process, turning education into an exciting adventure.
Example Lesson: Joy in Sharing with Others
Explanation: As the protagonist shares their light with others, they experience the joy of giving and the positive impact it has on the community.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of generosity and the positive emotions associated with sharing and helping others in their community.