Why the Sun and Moon Live in the Sky: Read It Yourself - Level 2 Developing Reader
Read It Yourself Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
This book is a retelling of a traditional Nigerian folktale explaining how the sun and moon came to live in the sky. Initially, Sun and Water were good friends on earth, but when Sun invited Water to his house, Water's vast presence flooded Sun's home. To find a new place to live together without causing harm, Sun and Moon ascended to the sky, creating a balance between day and night. Based on the classic West African folk tale. Sun and Water are good friends and neighbours. When Sun and Moon decide to build a larger house so Water can visit, they get a big surprise! A mythical tale about friendship and the origins of the world as we know it. 'Why the Sun and Moon Live in the Sky' is from Confident Reader Level 3 and is perfect for more confident readers aged from 6+ who can read simple stories with help. Each book has been carefully checked by educational and subject consultants and includes comprehension puzzles, book band information, and tips for helping children with their reading. With five levels to take children from first phonics to fluent reading and a wide range of different stories and topics for every interest, Read It Yourself helps children build their confidence and begin reading for pleasure.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the Sun and the Moon decided to live in the sky?
What would you do if you were in the Sun or the Moon's place?
How do you feel about the relationship between the Sun and the Moon in the story?
What are some ways the Sun and the Moon help us here on Earth?
Can you think of a different ending for the story? What would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters to life, changing your voice for the Sun and the Moon.
Before reading, ask your child what they know about the sun and the moon to activate prior knowledge.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene from the book. Discuss why they chose that particular scene.
Relate the story to nightly routines, discussing what happens when the sun 'goes to sleep' and the moon is 'awake'.
Ask your child to imagine and talk about what life would be like without the sun or moon in the sky.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Curiosity
Explanation: The story showcases the Sun inviting the Moon and the Water to his home, driven by curiosity and a desire to share his space. This sparks an adventurous outcome when the Water overflows the house.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to explore and ask questions about the world around them. Curiosity encourages active learning and engagement in new experiences.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: As the Water fills the house, the Sun and Moon are forced to find refuge in the sky. This teaches that actions have consequences.
Real-World Application: This story can help children understand that their choices impact themselves and others, emphasizing the importance of cautious and thoughtful decision-making.
Example Lesson: Value of Hospitality
Explanation: The Sun's invitation to the Water represents a warm, welcoming gesture. However, the story also deals with being prepared for the consequences of hospitality.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of being generous and accommodating to others, while also understanding the need to be prepared for unexpected outcomes.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The Sun and Moon's move to the sky demonstrates adaptability to unforeseen changes and challenges.
Real-World Application: It introduces children to the concept of adaptability, teaching them to remain flexible and resilient in the face of change.
Example Lesson: Understanding Limits
Explanation: The story highlights the limits of what the Sun’s home can contain, leading to a life-changing scenario for the main characters.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children learn the importance of recognizing and respecting limits, whether personal, physical or in their interactions with others.