We can sometimes mysticise (is that a word??) the lives of people who look differently than us, so I appreciate books that show people dealing with the same life experiences as us in their own way. Like this story of a young boy and his grandfather sitting through a storm at night. Most of us know that kind of fear and the comfort of having someone sturdy with us to show us how we don’t need to be fearful, but respectful. This book does all of that.
Social Studies
Orion and the Dark was turned into a movie, which was great, but I highly recommend this book. Fear is a common feeling, especially for littles. We also enjoyed Grandpa’s Tractor. This sweet book takes children on a journey through grandpa’s memories from when he was a child with his grandfather.
Math
You might think this would fit better in art, and it is definitely appropriate there, but quilt is fantastic for learning geometric shapes. If you have smaller children who are still learning shapes, this book is great to skim through and see the patterns and shapes. If your kids are older, they just may be inspired to create their own geometric masterpiece.
Science
We found these books to be great while studying the science day lessons – learning about light and shadow, the science of storms, thunder, and lightning, our senses, and aging.
Other books
These were some other books we found that fit in with the theme. Trucks are always a hit with my son and we enjoy nocturnal animals – learning how they rely on other senses when their vision might not be as reliable. I was very happy to find “Monsoon Afternoon” as it is a similar story but set in India! This time, Dadaji shows his grandson all the fun that can be had during the rain.
Poem: Shadows by Judith Nicholls
Stand with your back
to the shining sun;
watch your shadow
dance and run.
Stand and face
the shining sun;
look ahead –
your shadow’s gone!
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Complete Booklist:
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- “Storm in the Night” by Mary Stolz
- “Orion and the Dark” by Emma Yarlett
- “Grandpa’s Tractor” by Michael Garland
- “Sewing School Quilts” by Amie Petronis Plumley
- “Light and Shadow: A Sesame Street Science Book” by Susan Katz
- “Zap! Clap! Boom!” by Laura Purdie Salas
- “I’m Exploring with My Senses” by Laura Purdie Salas
- “You’re Only Old Once!” by Dr. Seuss
- “Thunder Trucks” by Cheryl Klein
- “Night Animals” by Gianna Marino
- “Monsoon Afternoon” by Kashmira Sheth
- “Wacky Weather” by Todd Tarpley
- “The Berenstain Bears in the Dark” by Stan & Jan Berenstain
Xapa to the World 
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