Midnight Dancer (Hippo Animal)
#1 in Midnight Dancer Series
on Goodreads (29)
What’s inside...
Mory is thrilled when she finds a pony which doesn't seem to belong to anyone, and she is determined to keep it. However, her excitement is dashed when she discovers that the pony is owned by the nasty Mr. Lewis.
Discussion points
What do you think the Midnight Dancer feels when dancing under the moonlight?
How do the other animals in the story react to the Midnight Dancer? What does that tell us about friendship?
If you could dance with the Midnight Dancer, what dance would you choose and why?
What lessons can we learn from the Midnight Dancer about following our passions?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, show genuine interest in your child's thoughts and feelings to encourage open communication.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s experiences, such as times they tried something new or felt different from others.
Encourage your child to express themselves through a dance after reading the book, just like the Midnight Dancer, to make the connection between physical expression and emotional experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: In 'Midnight Dancer,' the story portrays the hippo's journey to understand other animals' feelings and perspectives, which teaches children the importance of empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can use this lesson to better understand their peers' emotions and behaviors, helping them build stronger friendships and social connections.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, Midnight Dancer faces several challenges but continues to strive towards her goals. This highlights the value of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to keep trying despite difficulties in tasks such as learning new skills or solving problems at school.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: The main character uses dance as a form of expression, showcasing creativity. The book encourages readers to explore and appreciate different forms of artistic expression.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to engage in creative activities such as drawing, dancing, or writing, helping to enhance their cognitive development and emotional expression.
Example Lesson: Respect for Diversity
Explanation: Midnight Dancer interacts with various animals of different species, teaching respect for diversity.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate and respect people from different backgrounds and cultures, fostering a more inclusive environment at school and in their communities.