The Night School for Young ­Mystics: Five Fabulous Field Trips into Moonlight and Magic

Gr 3 Up–Young readers are introduced to mindfulness practices through the premise of attendance at a fictional, magical school. Head teacher Ms. Marlowe guides students on wonderful Night School field trips (mostly through visualization), such as Finding Your Night Spot (where kids can sit outside or look out their windows to get comfortable with the colors, sounds, and feels of nighttime) and New York City (via visualization) to learn how to cast spells (or set intentions). Each chapter delves deeper into the mystical, focusing on topics like the meaning behind the elements, astrology, and positive thinking. The school’s supply list includes items like a flashlight, notebook, and compass. Notes advising readers to keep parents aware of their activities and whereabouts are sprinkled throughout. This book is full of whimsy, fun, intrigue; it’s filled with beautiful artwork the complements the ethereal tone of the work. This is a great choice for children who are creative and imaginative. Toll teaches acceptance of the full self as well as fostering respect for nature and curiosity. The mix of fiction and nonfiction may make this hard to shelve and catalog, but the unique approach will engage kids. Back matter includes glossary and further reading suggestions.