Hicotea: A Nightlights Story
#2 of 2 in Nightlights Series
What’s inside...
The mind-bending, psychedelic sequel to Lorena Alvarez's best-selling graphic novel debut Nightlights is now available in a new paperback edition! On a school field trip to the river, Sandy wanders away from her classmates and discovers an empty turtle shell. Peeking through the dark hole, she suddenly finds herself within a magical realm. Filled with sculptures, paintings, and books, the turtle's shell is a museum of the natural world. But one painting is incomplete, and the turtle needs Sandy's help to finish it. Raina Telgemeier meets Miyazaki with a Latin American twist in this mesmerizing follow-up to the best-selling children's graphic novel.
Character compass
Sandy
Hicotea
Heron
Discussion points
What do you think Sandy learned from her adventure with Hicotea in the magical realm?
How did the different environments affect Sandy’s feelings and decisions?
Why do you think it's important to respect and protect nature, as shown through Hicotea’s character?
What would you do if you were in Sandy’s shoes when she met Hicotea?
How do you think the art and colors in the book help tell the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe their favorite part of the book and why it stood out to them.
Discuss the importance of creativity and imagination, as Sandy uses these to navigate her challenges.
Relate the environmental themes to your child’s everyday life by talking about nature in your own surroundings.
Ask your child to imagine their own magical realm - what would it look like and who would they meet?
Explore themes of friendship and bravery, asking your child how they have or might exhibit these traits in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: In 'Hicotea: A Nightlights Story,' the protagonist, Sandy, demonstrates curiosity when she explores new worlds within a turtle’s shell. This magical journey highlights the joy and importance of learning and discovery.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore their own environments, ask questions, and learn about different aspects of the world around them, fostering a lifelong love for learning.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Throughout her adventures, Sandy encounters various creatures, each with unique challenges and stories. These interactions teach her to understand and empathize with different perspectives and experiences.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate the diversity of the people around them, promoting an inclusive attitude and understanding towards others’ feelings and viewpoints.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: The vivid, colorful illustrations and the fantastical elements of 'Hicotea' encourage readers to use their imagination. Sandy’s creative problem-solving in the story shows that imagination is a powerful tool.
Real-World Application: Children can apply creativity in their daily activities such as in arts, crafts, or problem-solving, enhancing their cognitive development and ability to think outside the box.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing the unknown
Explanation: Sandy shows bravery as she navigates through unfamiliar and sometimes intimidating scenarios. Her courage in facing fears head-on is a central theme.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face new challenges and fears positively, whether it’s trying out a new activity, making new friends, or expressing their own creativity and ideas.
Example Lesson: Environmental awareness
Explanation: The story's backdrop highlights nature and various ecosystems, subtly educating about environmental conservation and the beauty of natural habitats.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and take action to protect their environment, fostering a sense of responsibility towards nature from an early age.