Cherry Moon
What’s inside...
This wondrous poetry collection captures eye-popping moments, tender observations and a thousand whimsical reflections on the sheer joy of the natural world. Thought-provoking, sensitive and delightfully original, Cherry Moon poses big questions about life with poems and other small gatherings of words; encouraging children of every age to explore the power, enchantment and sheer wonderfulness of nature.
Discussion points
What did you feel when you read the poems about nature in 'Cherry Moon'? Which part of nature would you like to write a poem about?
How do the illustrations in the book make you feel? Can you describe what you imagine when you see them?
Which poem in 'Cherry Moon' was your favorite and why? How does it make you think differently about the world around you?
In the book, there are poems about small and big things in nature. What small things do you notice around you that make you happy or curious?
If you could be any creature from the book for a day, which one would you choose and what would you do?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the poems, reinforcing that all interpretations are valid.
Discuss the senses described in the poems—sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste—and ask your child to describe their favorite sensory experiences.
Link the themes from the book to your child's experiences, such as comparing the natural elements in 'Cherry Moon' with those in your own environment.
Create an interactive reading session by having your child pick a poem and act it out or draw it while you read together.
Ask your child to think of their own poem inspired by 'Cherry Moon' and offer to write it down for them as they narrate, fostering creativity and literacy skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of nature
Explanation: Through vibrant poems and delightful imagery, 'Cherry Moon' encourages young readers to observe and cherish the natural world around them.
Real-World Application: Children can practice this lesson by engaging in outdoor activities and learning about different plants and animals in their surroundings.
Example Lesson: Expression through poetry
Explanation: 'Cherry Moon' exemplifies the beauty of expressing feelings and observations through poetry, showcasing a variety of poetic styles.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to try writing their own poems about everyday experiences or their feelings, enhancing their language and emotional skills.
Example Lesson: Seasons and time
Explanation: The book captures the essence of different seasons using poetic storytelling that highlights the passage of time and the perpetual nature of life cycles.
Real-World Application: Kids can observe seasonal changes in their environment and learn about the concepts of time and change more broadly, relating these to their own growth and development.
Example Lesson: Imagination and creativity
Explanation: The imaginative descriptions and scenarios in 'Cherry Moon' stimulate the imagination, encouraging creative thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by using their creativity to make up stories, draw, or engage in other creative arts, boosting their cognitive and creative faculties.
Example Lesson: Mindfulness and observation
Explanation: 'Cherry Moon' encourages a mindful approach to the little details in life and nature through attentive and appreciative poems.
Real-World Application: This can translate to children taking a moment to observe and reflect on their day, fostering mindfulness and presence in their daily activities.