Cloud Forest
on Goodreads (21)
What’s inside...
A child's Umpa teaches them the value of reading as they embark on daily adventures through books, visiting imaginative places and experiencing the joy of stories. However, one day Umpa is no longer there, leaving the child to remember their beloved Umpa through the stories they shared. This touching tale by Victoria Turnbull highlights the power of books in connecting people and preserving memories of loved ones.
Discussion points
What do you think the cloud forest would feel like if you could touch it?
Why do you think the characters acted the way they did?
What would you do if you found a mysterious place like the cloud forest?
How do you think the story would change if it were set near the ocean instead?
What are some ways you can help protect mysterious and magical places in nature?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine and describe their own version of a cloud forest, fostering creativity and a deeper connection with the book's setting.
Discuss the motivations and emotions of the characters to enhance empathy and understanding.
Relate the story's themes to real-world scenarios, like visiting new places or protecting the environment, making the content more relevant.
Ask your child to draw or write an alternative ending to the story, which can help develop their analytical and creative skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of curiosity and exploration
Explanation: In 'Cloud Forest', the protagonist's journey into an enchanting forest symbolizes the beauty of exploring the unknown and learning from it.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore their surroundings and ask questions, fostering a lifelong love of learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: Empathy and kindness
Explanation: The interactions between the characters showcase acts of kindness and understanding, teaching children the value of considering other's feelings.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to practice empathy in their interactions with peers and family members, promoting harmonious relationships.
Example Lesson: Resilience in facing challenges
Explanation: The protagonist encounters various challenges in the Cloud Forest, demonstrating the ability to overcome obstacles with determination.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of resilience which can help them navigate their own challenges in school and life.
Example Lesson: The beauty of friendship
Explanation: The story highlights how friendships can develop in the most unexpected places and situations, underscoring the importance of social bonds.
Real-World Application: Promotes the idea in children to be open to making friends in new environments and cherishing those relationships.
Example Lesson: Conservation of nature
Explanation: The lush depictions of the Cloud Forest and its inhabitants convey an underlying message about the importance of preserving natural environments.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be environmentally conscious and participate in activities that support conservation efforts.