Up at Night
Mallory Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Up at Night is a children's book written by Laurie Friedman. It tells the story of a young girl named Parker who struggles with anxiety and insomnia. As she navigates through her sleepless nights, she discovers the power of creativity and imagination to help her cope with her fears. The book explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the importance of finding joy in the midst of challenges. With its relatable protagonist and heartfelt message, Up at Night is a touching and inspiring read for young readers. In another story, Piper wants to stay up late like her older brother Chase, and hatches a plan to join in on the late-night fun. She soon discovers that staying up late may not be as enjoyable as she thought.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the animals might be doing when we are asleep at night?
How does the night sky in the book compare to what you see outside our window during the night?
Can you imagine what sounds you might hear if we were exploring the night like the characters?
Why do you think some animals are awake at night and not during the day?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about their own experiences with night-time, making connections between their life and the book.
Ask your child to describe the night sky or nocturnal animals they remember from the book, reinforcing their observation and memory skills.
Utilize a calm, night-time voice when discussing the book to enhance the thematic experience of nighttime exploration.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Curiosity
Explanation: In 'Up at Night,' the protagonist explores the quiet world after bedtime, showcasing their innate curiosity about the night-time environment.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to ask questions and explore their surroundings, fostering a lifelong love for learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: Understanding and Respecting Boundaries
Explanation: The young character learns to navigate the balance between exploration and the rules of nighttime in their home.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of respecting household rules and boundaries set for their safety and well-being.
Example Lesson: Value of Bravery
Explanation: Facing the unknown in the dark, the character demonstrates bravery, an essential quality that helps them overcome nighttime fears.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and uncertainties, whether it's trying new activities or adjusting to changes.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Quiet Moments
Explanation: The story highlights the serenity of the night, helping children find beauty in quiet and less chaotic environments.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to find calmness in solitude, which can aid in self-reflection and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Importance of Imagination
Explanation: As the protagonist ventures through the night, they imagine various scenarios, illustrating the power of imaginative play.
Real-World Application: This lesson emphasizes the role of imagination in problem-solving and creative thinking in everyday scenarios.