Thunder and the Noise Storms
illustrations by
on Goodreads (117)
What’s inside...
When the world gets too loud and chaotic, a young boy's grandfather helps him listen with wonder instead. Kids laughing, sneakers squeaking, balls bouncing-for Thunder, the sounds of the school day often brew into overwhelming noise storms. But when Thunder's mosom asks him what he hears on an urban nature walk, Thunder starts to understand how sounds like bird wings flapping and rushing water can help him feel calm and connected. Gentle, inviting illustrations by Joshua Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley emphasize Mosom's lessons about the healing power of the world around us.
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Thunder felt during the noise storms? Can you relate to those feelings?
What are some ways Thunder tried to calm the noise? Which do you think was the most effective?
Why is it important to find peace when things are loud or chaotic around us?
What do you think you can do next time you feel overwhelmed like Thunder?
How did Thunder's friends help during the noise storms? Why is it important to have support?
Tip: Role play these questions
Allow your child to express their own feelings and experiences with noise or chaos, drawing parallels to Thunder's reactions in the story.
Encourage your child to think of constructive ways to deal with overwhelming situations, validating their ideas as they share them.
Discuss the importance of seeking help and supporting others during stressful times, emphasizing empathy and community as shown in the book.
Highlight the resolution of the story and ask your child to imagine alternative endings or other solutions to the problem.
Utilize pauses after each question to give your child sufficient time to think and articulate their thoughts.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and Managing Emotions
Explanation: In 'Thunder and the Noise Storms', Thunder the character navigates through overwhelming sounds that represent strong emotions. The story walks through techniques to manage and calm these 'noise storms'.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these techniques to recognize and regulate their own emotions, especially when they feel overwhelmed.
Example Lesson: Empathy Towards Others
Explanation: The book portrays how Thunder’s friends react and assist when they notice Thunder’s discomfort. This highlights the importance of noticing and responding to the feelings of others.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of being observant and compassionate towards their friends or classmates who may be experiencing distress.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Fears
Explanation: Thunder eventually confronts the Noise Storms, symbolizing facing one's fears. The story encourages facing fears with the support of friends and family.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of confronting fears and the role support systems play in overcoming personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Importance of Communication
Explanation: Thunder communicates his feelings about the noise storms to his friends, which is crucial in how they come to assist him.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the significance of expressing their thoughts and feelings clearly to others, which can aid in resolving feelings of distress or misunderstanding.