Night Tree



Last updated Monday, July 23, 2007

Author: Eve Bunting
Illustrator: Ted Rand
Date of Publication: 1991
ISBN: 0152574255
Grade Level: 1st    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Dec. 2004

Synopsis: By moonlight in the quiet forest, a young boy and his family decorate their favorite tree with popcorn, apples, tangerines, and sunflower-seed balls as a gift for the animals of the woods.

Note to readers:
•  Perhaps set up to read in a "picnic" style on the ground to mimic the book.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  What are your family's traditions? What does it mean to have traditions?
•  What kind of things can we use to decorate a tree?

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  Why didn't the family cut down the tree and take it home with them? Why did they decorate with food?
•  How does it feel to give someone a present? How does it feel to receive a present?
•  What things are you thankful for?

Craft ideas:
•  Bring ahead option: Bring in bird seed and other animal food to make an outside ornament for the animals.
•  Make a paper chain to hang on a tree.
•  Draw a Christmas scene with your favorite animal in his/her natural environment.

Special activities:
•  Sing carols.

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!