Max and the Tag‐Along Moon



Last updated Tuesday, May 8, 2018

Author: Floyd Cooper
Date of Publication: 2013
ISBN: 0399233423
Grade Level: 1st    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: May 2018

Synopsis: Max loves his grandpa. When they must say good-bye after a visit, Grandpa reminds Max that the moon above them at Grandpa’s house is the same moon that will follow him all the way home. And on that swervy-curvy car ride back home Max smiles as the moon tags along, thinking of Grandpa. But when the sky darkens and the moon disappears behind clouds, Max worries that it did not follow him home after all. Yet when the clouds part and light streams through his window, he realizes that Grandpa was right —t he moon was with him all along.

Note to readers:
•  The story synopsis is on the cover, on the inside flap.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  When does the moon come out?
•  What does the moon look like?
•  What do you think 'tag-along' means?

Vocabulary

•  Gazed - to look at something or someone for a long time.
•  Embraced - the act of holding someone in your arms.
•  Orb - something shaped like a ball.
•  Flicker - to glow in an unsteady way.
•  Nightingales - a small brown bird that sings a beautiful song especially at night.

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  Do you think the moon really follows us around?
•  Where do you think the moon went when it disappeared?
•  Do you think the moon ever stops shining, for example, like during the day?

Craft ideas:
•  Make a moon out of a paper plate and hang stars from it. See Pinterest for examples.
•  Draw a picture of the moon following your car.
•  Make a Mother's Day card.
•  Check our craft ideas on Pinterest!
https://www.pinterest.com/readingtokids/may-2018-fantasy-folklore-fairytales/

*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!