Night Noises & Shapes from Nature Level 23-24

Night Noises & Shapes from Nature invites readers into the world of animals, storytelling, and symbolism. In Night Noises, a young boy becomes frightened by the unfamiliar sound of an owl but is comforted by his grandfather's mythological story, which explains the owl's feathers. This story-within-a-story combines realistic narrative with mythical elements and rich character dialogue. In the companion non-fiction text Shapes from Nature, readers explore global stories and artworks that explain natural events and animal behaviours, particularly focusing on birds and the sun. With support from glossaries, procedures, and illustrated tables, the text helps readers appreciate the symbolic significance of nature across cultures. Together, these titles celebrate storytelling traditions, intergenerational learning, and the natural world.

Educational Benefits:

• Enhances comprehension of myth as a storytelling device within realistic fiction
• Builds cultural understanding through global myths and artistic expression
• Develops visual literacy through detailed illustrations and text boxes
• Supports procedural reading and interpretation of symbolic language

Classroom Ideas:

• Retell the owl myth using puppets or a comic strip
• Create a classroom display of myths from different cultures about animals or the sun
• Discuss how fear can be transformed through storytelling
• Explore shapes in nature and link them to story themes

Safety & Information:

• Suitable for ages 7+
• Book dimensions: 200mm x 210mm
• All materials tested to meet child-safe standards
• Excellent for integrating visual arts, literacy, and cultural studies