The Secret World of Hildegard
on Goodreads (127)
What’s inside...
From the star-studded author of DIZZY and the mother-son team that brought you DIEGO comes a picture book on the extraordinary Hildegard von Bingen, a woman who had the courage to take on kings. Hildegard von Bingen composed hymns and symphonies, painted glorious pictures, compiled books on medicine, and wrote religious revelations of such ethereal beauty that they inspired the respect of Popes and kings--all in the Dark Ages when most people were illiterate and women were disdained. Now Jonah Winter teams up once again with his mother, the award-winning illustrator Jeanette Winter, to bring you Hildegard's remarkable story. The result is a lyrical biography that captures Hildegard's faith and beauty--and celebrates the courage it took for a singular woman to let her light shine.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Hildegard sees in her secret world and why is it secret?
How does Hildegard feel when she visits her secret world, and what clues in the book tell you that?
If you could create a secret world of your own, what would it look like and who would you invite to visit?
How do the other characters in the book react to Hildegard's secret world?
What does Hildegard’s secret world teach us about imagination and creativity?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions that allow your child to explore their thoughts and feelings about the story.
Encourage creativity by asking your child to draw or describe their own secret world.
Discuss the emotions Hildegard might be feeling in different parts of the book and relate them to real-life scenarios your child might encounter.
Focus on the descriptive language used in the book to help your child understand and visualize Hildegard's experiences.
Link the book’s themes to everyday life to reinforce lessons about imagination and personal expression.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The power of curiosity
Explanation: Hildegard's journey into the secret world showcases her curious nature, which leads to incredible discoveries and learning experiences.
Real-World Application: Curiosity encourages children to explore new topics, ask questions, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Example Lesson: Resilience in facing challenges
Explanation: Throughout her adventures, Hildegard encounters various obstacles but she uses her intelligence and creativity to overcome them.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of resilience and problem-solving, helping them navigate their own challenges in life.
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness
Explanation: Hildegard's interactions with the creatures she meets are marked by kindness, which fosters friendships and mutual respect.
Real-World Application: Children learn that treating others with kindness can lead to positive relationships and a supportive community.
Example Lesson: Value of learning from others
Explanation: Hildegard learns valuable lessons from the characters she meets in the secret world, highlighting the importance of listening and learning from different perspectives.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to respect and learn from others’ experiences and viewpoints, enhancing their social and emotional growth.
Example Lesson: Bravery in exploring the unknown
Explanation: Hildegard's willingness to step into an unknown world exemplifies bravery and openness to new experiences.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to embrace new opportunities and face the unfamiliar with courage and openness.