Under a Strawberry Moon
What’s inside...
This story is based on Lakota language and concepts and is written in a Wolakota manner. It focuses on the importance of walking, talking, and moving in a sacred manner across the Earth, as inspired by knowledge passed down from female elders. The book also highlights the significance of the Moon and includes the contextual use of the Lakota language for easy learning. The artwork and storytelling are by Lynnea A. Luebben, and the book is dedicated to all women and children and their experiences on Earth.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-18
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the strawberry moon affected the characters’ feelings and actions in the story?
What lesson did the main character learn by the end of the book?
If you were in the story, what would you have done differently during the strawberry moon event?
How did the setting of the story under the strawberry moon make the events more magical or interesting?
What does the strawberry moon symbolize in the story, and why do you think it's important?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading: While reading 'Under a Strawberry Moon', use different voices for each character to make the storytelling more engaging. Pausing after key events can also spark curiosity and prompt discussion.
Relate to personal experiences: Encourage your child to connect events in the book with their own life. For example, ask if they've ever experienced something magical like a strawberry moon and how it felt.
Discuss the illustrations: Talk about how the illustrations contribute to the story. Ask your child what they notice in the pictures during the strawberry moon scenes and how it enhances the narrative.
Predict outcomes: Before turning pages, ask your child what they think will happen next under the strawberry moon. This will keep them invested in the story and eager to read more.
Summarize and reflect: After reading, have your child summarize the story and reflect on the lessons learned. This helps in reinforcing the themes and values depicted in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Under a Strawberry Moon', the characters encounter various creatures each with unique challenges. Through interaction, they learn to understand and empathize with the struggles of others.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to appreciate the feelings and perspectives of friends and peers, fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: As the story unfolds, characters must work together to solve problems and overcome obstacles during their adventure, highlighting the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of cooperating with others to achieve common goals, an essential skill in school projects and family activities.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Adaptability
Explanation: The protagonists face unexpected challenges under the strawberry moon, learning to adapt and persevere despite difficulties.
Real-World Application: Children learn to remain resilient and flexible in the face of change or challenges, helping them navigate their own life's ups and downs.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Nature
Explanation: The story's setting under the strawberry moon on a beautiful night instills a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world.
Real-World Application: Encouraging outdoor exploration and environmental consciousness among children.