All Four Quarters of the Moon
on Goodreads (179)
What’s inside...
NOTABLE, CBCA Book of the Year - Younger Readers 2023. For fans of When You Trap a Tiger and A Place to Belong comes a middle grade novel about love and resilience, interwoven with Chinese mythology, a Little World made completely of paper, and the ever-changing, but constant moon. The night of the Mid-Autumn Festival with mooncakes marks the last memory Peijing Guo has of her life being the same. Now in Australia, her family faces struggles as they adapt, with Biju, a five-year-old needing a dependable sister, Ah-Ma's forgetfulness, a changed Ma Ma, and Ba Ba's new role. Amidst all, Peijing grapples with her place within her family and her own uncertainties.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
368 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Peijing felt when her family moved to a new country? Can you relate to her feelings?
Why is the relationship between Peijing and her sister important in the story? How does it change from the beginning to the end?
What are some of the challenges the sisters face, and how do they overcome them together?
How does the story show the importance of family and tradition?
Can you think of a time when you had to be brave like Peijing and Biju?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by sharing a personal story of a time you faced a big change, inviting your child to see the similarity with Peijing and Biju’s experiences.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book by asking them how certain events in the story made them feel, and why.
Ask your child to draw parallels between the challenges faced by the characters and anything they themselves have gone through, fostering empathy and deeper understanding.
Highlight the cultural aspects presented in the book and discuss any traditions your family has, making connections to the story’s themes.
Praise your child for their insights and ensure it's a safe space for them to express their thoughts without fear of being wrong.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of family bonds
Explanation: Throughout 'All Four Quarters of the Moon,' the relationship between the sisters and their familial interactions underpin the narrative, highlighting the strength and support family provides during challenging times.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and rely on their family members, understanding that they can find comfort and support within their own home, especially in difficult situations.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The characters in the book face various trials, but they demonstrate resilience by overcoming these obstacles, showcasing the power of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persisting through their own difficulties, whether they're dealing with school challenges, social issues, or personal setbacks.
Example Lesson: Cultural heritage and identity
Explanation: The protagonists in the book navigate their cultural identities, blending their heritage with their current lives in Australia, which emphasizes the importance of recognizing and honoring one's roots.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to explore and take pride in their own cultural backgrounds, and understand the importance of inclusivity and diversity in their interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As the characters in the story face personal and family challenges, they learn to understand each other's perspectives and feelings more deeply, fostering empathy.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children develop the ability to empathize with peers and family members, enhancing their social skills and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to change
Explanation: The family in the story goes through significant changes, and the siblings learn to adapt to their new circumstances. This theme highlights the necessity and strength in being flexible.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of being adaptable when faced with changes such as moving to a new place, changing schools, or any other major life transitions.