What sounds do you hear on a stormy night?

This is a discussion prompt for One Stormy Night by Ruth Brown. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Have you ever been scared by something that turned out to be not so scary?

This is a discussion prompt for One Stormy Night by Ruth Brown. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

What do you think the animal ghost wanted?

This is a discussion prompt for One Stormy Night by Ruth Brown. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Which animal in the story would you most like to be friends with?

This is a discussion prompt for One Stormy Night by Ruth Brown. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

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One Stormy Night

Name: One Stormy Night
ISBN: 9780140562293

by Ruth Brown

A mysterious white dog wanders through a dark manor during a thunderstorm, awakening other animals before finding a cozy place to sleep in this atmospheric tale.

About This Book

A stormy night awakens several sleeping animals.

Concepts

Fear & Bravery Curiosity & Wonder Loneliness & Belonging Animals Dogs Ghosts Weather & Seasons

Heads up, parents

Scary Scenes

peril_danger

Wonderlit Review

Ruth Brown's 'One Stormy Night' is a charming and atmospheric picture book that gently explores the mystery of a stormy night through the eyes of various animals. The narrative follows different creatures, notably a dog, as they are roused from sleep by a fierce storm. What begins as a simple observation of the weather soon turns into a mild adventure as they encounter what are described as 'animal ghosts.' The book handles this potentially sensitive topic with a light touch, presenting the ghosts as more ethereal and curious than truly frightening, making it suitable for young readers. The emotional arc is one of initial apprehension or curiosity, transitioning to a sense of wonder and ultimately, comfort. This book is ideal for children aged 4-8 who enjoy animal stories and are ready for a touch of gentle spookiness. A parent might reach for this book when their child is experiencing mild anxiety about storms, or when they are looking for a cozy, slightly mysterious bedtime story. Parents should preview the 'animal ghosts' element to assure children that they are not scary. Younger children (4-5) will enjoy the atmospheric illustrations and the simple narrative, while older children (6-8) might appreciate the subtle mystery and the idea of friendly spirits. What sets this book apart is its ability to create a sense of eerie wonder without resorting to genuine fear, making it a unique entry in the 'mildly spooky' genre.