The Storm Whale in Winter
#2 of 4 in The Storm Whale Series
What’s inside...
On a snowy island, a little boy named Noi waits and watches while his father sails out on one last fishing trip. As the snow becomes a blizzard and then a powerful storm, Noi must find his father. But when Noi needs help, who will save him? A follow-up to the best-selling The Storm Whale, winner of the 2014 inaugural Oscar's First Book Prize in association with the Evening Standard. It’s winter time and Noi’s island is covered in a blanket of snow. Even the sea is icing over. Noi is worried about the little whale he saved last year. Can he survive the harsh conditions? Little does Noi know that it’s the little whale’s turn to save him. A magical and touching story about a lasting friendship. A truly beautiful work packing a real emotional punch. ‘At the heart of this emotionally charged story is the joy of a lasting friendship, tender and true’ Fiona Noble for The Bookseller, Children’s Book of the Month. Other books from the World of the Storm include The Storm Whale, Grandma Bird, Grandad's Island, On Sudden Hill, When the Dragons Came, and Jump on Board the Animal Train.
Discussion points
How do you think Noi felt when he found the whale? Can you think of a time when you helped someone and how it made you feel?
Why is it important to help others, like Noi helps the whale?
What do you think the storm represents in the story? Have you ever faced something scary and found a way to overcome it?
How did Noi’s dad react when he found out about the whale? What does this teach us about understanding and compassion?
What would you have done if you were in Noi’s place during the winter storm?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story by relating it to their own experiences of friendship and helping others.
Discuss the significance of courage and kindness as portrayed in the book, and tie these values to real-life situations your child might encounter.
Use the storm as a metaphor to talk about personal challenges and fears, asking your child how they might handle tough situations.
Highlight the importance of empathy by discussing Noi's relationship with his father and how they support each other.
As you read the story, ask predictive questions like 'What do you think will happen next?' to keep your child engaged and thinking critically about the plot and its outcomes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: In 'The Storm Whale in Winter,' the protagonist, Noi, demonstrates empathy by helping a whale that is trapped in the icy waters near his home. This reflects a deep sense of care and concern for another being's welfare.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to understand and share the feelings of others. Whether it's helping a friend in need or caring for animals, empathy enriches their social interactions and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Bravery in the Face of Adversity
Explanation: Noi shows courage when he ventures out into a dangerous winter storm to save his friend, the whale. This highlights the theme of overcoming fear to help others.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face their fears and stresses the importance of bravery when confronting challenging situations. It teaches them the value of taking action, even when circumstances are intimidating.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Friendship
Explanation: The story underscores the value of lasting friendships through the bond between Noi and the whale. Their friendship provides both comfort and assistance in times of need.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of building and maintaining relationships. It teaches them about loyalty, trust, and mutual support, essential aspects of friendships that last.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Problem-Solving
Explanation: Throughout the story, Noi exemplifies perseverance by continually striving to rescue the whale despite numerous obstacles. This problem-solving attitude is pivotal in the storyline.
Real-World Application: This lesson can guide children in not giving up easily on their goals. Whether it's solving a difficult puzzle or mastering a new skill, persistence is key to overcoming hurdles in life.