The Yawnicorn
on Goodreads (141)
What’s inside...
The Yawnicorn is a whimsical tale of a unique unicorn with the magical ability to bring dreams to life with its yawns. The story follows the Yawnicorn's adventures as it explores the fantastical Dreamland, meeting various creatures and facing challenges that test its courage and creativity. A magical picture book specially designed to help children settle down for bedtime, it follows the Yawnicorn as it helps sweep children away on a magical nighttime adventure through rainforests, oceans and across the starry skies, ultimately bringing them home ready to fall into a happy, deep slumber. This soothing and reassuring story is perfect for children who have trouble sleeping or feel anxious at bedtime.
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the Yawnicorn feels sleepy all the time?
What would you do if you met a Yawnicorn?
How do the other creatures in the story react to Yawnicorn's yawns?
Can you think of a time when a yawn made you feel differently?
What is the most magical thing about the Yawnicorn?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a soft, soothing voice to mimic the Yawnicorn’s sleepiness, making the reading experience calming.
After reading, ask your child to draw their version of a Yawnicorn, encouraging them to think creatively about the story.
Encourage your child to talk about their bedtime routine and how it might compare to the Yawnicorn’s.
Discuss the importance of sleep and how it helps us, linking it back to how it helps the Yawnicorn in the story.
Relate the story to your child's experiences by asking if they've ever felt sleepy like the Yawnicorn during an important moment.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy
Explanation: In 'The Yawnicorn,' the main character, Yawni, understands and addresses the feelings of others in her imaginative world, showing kindness and concern.
Real-World Application: Children learn to recognize and respond to the feelings of friends and family, fostering a caring community environment.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: Yawni's adventures are filled with magical and creative solutions to challenges, emphasizing the power of using one's imagination.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to use their creativity to solve problems and think outside the box in their daily activities and play.
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: Yawni faces various obstacles in her journey but continues to strive forward with determination.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of persisting through difficulties they encounter, whether in schoolwork or personal goals.
Example Lesson: The significance of bedtime routines
Explanation: Throughout the book, Yawni's experiences subtly suggest the benefits of having a consistent bedtime routine for healthier sleep habits.
Real-World Application: Helps kids understand the importance of a regular sleep schedule, which can improve their overall mood and performance in school.
Example Lesson: Sharing joy with others
Explanation: Yawni shares her joyful and yawning-induced adventures with her friends in the story, spreading happiness.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to share happy moments and achievements with others, enhancing social bonds and collective happiness.