Time of Wonder
Picture Puffin S. Series
on Goodreads (5,187)
What’s inside...
Follows the activities of two children spending their summer vacation on an island off the coast of Maine. Winner of the Caldecott Medal! For fans of
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
63 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What feelings did you experience when reading about the adventures in 'Time of Wonder'?
How do you think the characters felt during the storm?
What is your favorite part of the island and why?
If you could create your own adventure on the island, what would it look like?
How do you think the island changes with the seasons?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe the setting of the story in their own words, to better connect with the island's environment.
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene from the book. This can help them express their understanding and feelings about the story.
Discuss the concept of time and change with your child, using the seasonal transformations in the book as a reference point.
Relate the storm in the book to any personal experiences your child has had with weather, and discuss how it made them feel.
After reading, spend some time with your child discussing how the characters might continue their adventures after the book ends.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Nature
Explanation: Throughout 'Time of Wonder,' the enchanting illustrations and lyrical text guide children through the beauty and changing moods of the Maine coastline.
Real-World Application: Children learn to observe and cherish the natural world around them, fostering a lifelong respect and responsibility towards the environment.
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: The story captures the transitions of summer ending and the onset of a hurricane, mirroring the inevitable changes in life.
Real-World Application: This lesson prepares children to accept and adapt to changes in their own lives, such as moving to a new place or changing schools.
Example Lesson: Value of Experiences
Explanation: The narrative focuses on the memorable summer adventures on Penobscot Bay, emphasizing experiences over material possessions.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to value and collect experiences, such as family trips or learning a new skill, which are instrumental for personal growth.
Example Lesson: Courage and Resilience
Explanation: As the characters in the book prepare and face a fierce storm, they demonstrate bravery and resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be brave in the face of challenges, whether it's dealing with a natural disaster or personal obstacles.