The Midnight Fair
by Gideon Sterer

The Midnight Fair

The Midnight Fair by Gideon Sterer, illustrated by Mariachiara Di Giorgio, is a captivating wordless picture book that invites readers into a magical world where animals come to life after dark at an abandoned fairground. The story unfolds without text, allowing the stunning illustrations to guide the narrative. This unique approach encourages creativity and imagination, as readers can interpret the scenes in their own way.

The book showcases a variety of animals—rabbits, foxes, and bears—who explore the fairground's attractions, from whimsical rides to vibrant games. The illustrations are rich in detail and color, creating an enchanting atmosphere that captures the thrill and joy of a night filled with adventure. The absence of words allows the visual storytelling to shine, making it accessible for children of all ages.

Critically acclaimed for its artistic merit and imaginative premise, The Midnight Fair resonates with both young readers and adults. It evokes nostalgia for childhood wonder while also celebrating the beauty of nature and play. This delightful tale serves as a reminder of the magic that can be found in unexpected places, making it a perfect addition to any child's bookshelf.

Author: Gideon Sterer

Gideon Sterer is a talented American author known for his imaginative storytelling and captivating children's books. He has gained recognition as a New York Times bestselling author, with works that often blend fantasy and whimsy. Sterer's writing is characterized by its ability to engage young readers through enchanting narratives and vibrant illustrations, as seen in his acclaimed picture books like The Midnight Fair and The Christmas Owl. His storytelling often invites readers to explore themes of adventure, compassion, and the magic of childhood imagination. Sterer's contributions to children's literature have earned him several accolades, including the Kate Greenaway Shadowers’ Choice Award, highlighting his impact on the genre and his ability to resonate with both children and adults alike.

Book Details:

  • Publisher: Walker Books
  • Format: Paperback
  • Print length: 48 pages
  • Dimensions: 28.2 x 0.5 x 20 cm
  • Reading age: 3-7 years old
  • Publication date: 3 Feb. 2022
  • ISBN: 978-1406394658

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How can "The Midnight Fair" help in teaching a Year 2 English "Tell Me A Story" Lesson?

Author: Gideon Stere

"The Midnight Fair" by Gideon Sterer can be an excellent resource for teaching a Year 2 English "Tell Me A Story" lesson due to its engaging narrative and rich illustrations. Here’s how it can be effectively utilized in the classroom:

Engagement Through Storytelling Magical Adventure: The book invites students into a whimsical world, which can captivate their imagination. Engaging children with a magical adventure helps stimulate their interest in storytelling and encourages them to think creatively about narrative elements such as setting, characters, and plot.

Visual Literacy Illustrations: The vibrant illustrations in "The Midnight Fair" can serve as prompts for discussion. Teachers can ask students to describe what they see, predict what might happen next, or even create their own stories based on the images. This practice enhances their ability to interpret visual information and connect it with narrative structure.

Story Structure Elements of a Story: The book provides clear examples of story elements such as the introduction, conflict, climax, and resolution. Teachers can guide students in identifying these components within the story, helping them understand how stories are constructed.

Creative Writing Exercises Story Creation: After reading "The Midnight Fair," students can be encouraged to write their own stories inspired by the themes or characters in the book. This exercise fosters creativity and allows students to practice their writing skills in a fun and engaging way.

Discussion and Reflection Themes and Morals: Discussions about the themes presented in the book, such as friendship, adventure, and imagination, can lead to deeper understanding and reflection. Students can share their thoughts on what they learned from the story and how it relates to their own experiences.

By incorporating "The Midnight Fair" into a Year 2 English lesson, educators can create an interactive and enriching learning environment that not only teaches storytelling but also nurtures a love for reading among young learners.

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