A Literary Leaf for The Midnight Panther

Main Outcome(s):

Reports, poems, summaries, letters of advice, badges, a section of dialogue, a bid, an own version narrative / narrative, from an alternate perspective

Length:

10+ sessions, 2 weeks

Overview and Outcomes:
This is a two-week plus, Whole School Writing Root for The Midnight Panther by Poonam Mistry. In this intricately illustrated fable, we hear of a rainforest-dwelling panther who, in spite of delighting in his surroundings, is lonely. The other big cats taunt Panther: he looks so unlike them. Cowed by this taunting, any bravery Panther had dissipates until one day he decides he must change. In this Writing Root, the story is shared in stages while the children explore the themes. Children have various opportunities to orally rehearse or independently write (dependent on age/stage): reports, poems, summaries, letters of advice, badges, a section of dialogue, a bid and an own version narrative/ narrative from an alternate perspective. Opportunities for instant and planned publishing have been included as have opportunities for cross phase writing and sharing of outcomes.

Synopsis of Text:

A stunning fable about courage and finding your place in the world, with beautiful illustrations by Greenaway-shortlisted Poonam Mistry. The perfect gift book.

Panther is not like the other cats. Leopard has beautiful spots, Tiger has impressive stripes and Lion has a magnificent mane. Panther is small, shy and dark.

One night he decides to go and find out where in the jungle he really belongs. Finally summoning the courage to scale the treetops, he answers the call of moonlight and ink-black night. Perhaps up among the stars he will find out something about his own strength and beauty.

Links:

Courage, finding your place in the world