Nightsong

 

Nightsong. Written by Ari Berk and Illustrated by Lori Long. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers c. 2012, 48pp.

Synopsis: A young bat named Chiro has been told by his mother he must fly out into the world at night without her for the first time. Chiro is scared and nervous, mostly because he does not think he will be able to see. His mother reminds him about his “good sense” (echolocation) and assures him he’ll be fine. Chiro is indeed frightened at first, but then begins to “sing” and suddenly is completely aware of his surroundings.

Reading Level: 790L

Rationale for Use in the Classroom: This is a great basic book for use with identifying the lesson a character has learned. Also, there is a great informational tie in with the topic of bats.

CCSS Connection: This book would lend itself well to many of the CCSS for literature including: With prompting and support, ask and answer questions about key details in a text. (RLK.1), ask and answer questions about key details in a text (RL1.1), with prompting and support, retell familiar stories, including key details (RLK.2), retell stories, including key details, and demonstrate understanding of their central message or lesson (RL1.2).

-Jill Croy