The Midnight Panther
What’s inside...
A stunning fable about identity, confidence, and self-acceptance from three-time Greenaway-shortlisted artist Poonam Mistry (How the Stars Came to Be). Panther is not like the other cats: Leopard has beautiful spots, Tiger has impressive stripes, and Lion has a magnificent mane. But Panther is small, shy, and plain. The other cats say he is not special. So Panther runs away to find somewhere he truly belongs. He gives himself a mane like Lion, stripes like Tiger, and spots like Leopard. But, with the help of Wind, Rain, Sun, and Moon, Panther discovers that he is perfect as he is. Will he finally summon the courage to scale the treetops and answer the call of the ink-black night? An original fable written and illustrated by artist Poonam Mistry, The Midnight Panther embodies self-love, individuality, and diversity. With sumptuous art infused with South Asian influences, Mistry's latest picture book speaks to everyone learning to love themselves.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the Midnight Panther felt when it couldn’t find its way home?
What would you have done if you were in the Midnight Panther's place during its journey?
Why is it important to help others, like the characters helped the Midnight Panther?
What did you learn about the different animals the Panther met?
How do you think the story would change if the Panther had chosen a different path?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child to predict what challenges the Midnight Panther might face.
Point out the relationships between different characters during the read, and discuss the importance of teamwork.
Use vivid descriptions in the book to help your child imagine the scenes and the emotions of the Midnight Panther.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book.
Connect the themes of the story to your child's own experiences with friendship and problem-solving.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and bravery
Explanation: In 'The Midnight Panther', the protagonist faces various challenges in the dark, mystical forest but overcomes them with bravery. This demonstration of courage amidst uncertainty is a pivotal theme.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing their own fears and stepping out of their comfort zones, which is crucial in overcoming everyday obstacles and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Friendship and trust
Explanation: Throughout the journey, the panther builds relationships with other forest creatures, illustrating the power of trust and teamwork.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of building and maintaining trust in friendships and how collaboration can lead to achieving common goals.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The story's setting in a mystical forest filled with diverse flora and fauna highlights the importance of environmental conservation and respect for wildlife.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to appreciate and protect the natural world around them, fostering environmentally responsible behaviors from a young age.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: The Midnight Panther's adventure is driven by curiosity, leading to discovery and learning.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to explore new interests and learn actively, understanding that curiosity is the foundation of lifelong learning.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: As challenges arise, the protagonist uses clever thinking and problem-solving skills to navigate through difficulties.
Real-World Application: This lesson underscores the importance of critical thinking and creativity in solving problems, skills that are applicable in academic settings and everyday life.