Description
THE FLOCK
Book Summary
A picture book in Basque that addresses the difficulties of falling asleep with humor and tenderness. The protagonist, Miguel, counts sheep every night to fall asleep, but one of them refuses to jump over the fence. This conflict triggers an unexpected situation that invites young readers to reflect on empathy, creativity, and problem-solving. A simple and visually appealing story that connects with childhood routines and imagination.
What is it about?
Miguel has trouble sleeping, and his foolproof method is counting sheep jumping over a fence. The routine works until sheep number Four puts its foot down: it is tired of jumping and refuses to continue. The other sheep in the flock try to convince it, but it stands its ground. The book explores how the group deals with this unexpected rebellion and whether they will manage to find a solution that allows Miguel to fall asleep. The narrative combines lively dialogue with a cumulative rhythm that engages little ones.
Main themes
- Childhood sleep routines and habits
- Empathy and respect for others' decisions
- Creativity in resolving everyday conflicts
- Teamwork and negotiation between characters
- Overcoming frustration and stubbornness
Who is it recommended for?
Aimed at boys and girls aged 3 to 6 who are familiar with Basque, as well as families and educators looking for a story to share before bedtime. Especially useful for little ones who have difficulty falling asleep or who need tools to manage frustration. It is also suitable for exploring values such as active listening and flexibility in the preschool classroom.
What this book offers
- Normalizes sleep difficulties through a playful approach without dramatization.
- Encourages reflection on the importance of respecting others' boundaries.
- Stimulates the imagination by showing a creative alternative to a repetitive routine.
- Offers a model for peaceful conflict resolution within a group.
- Reinforces Basque language learning with accessible text and subtle rhymes.
Technical specifications
- Author: Guridi; Del Mazo, Margarita
- Publisher: NubeOcho
- Language: Basque
- Theme: Picture books, Illustrated storybooks
- Collection: Basque
- Binding: Hardcover
- Publication date: September 2022
- Number of pages: 40
- Weight: 150 g
Editorial review
A picture book that stands out for its ability to connect with a universal childhood experience (the difficulty of falling asleep) through a simple yet meaningful conflict. Guridi's graphic proposal, recognizable by his expressive and minimalist style, complements an agile text by Margarita del Mazo. The work is especially interesting for the Basque-speaking public due to its edition in Basque, and its focus on negotiation and empathy makes it a valuable educational tool both at home and at school.