Reading Activities: Goth Moth by Kai Lüftner, illustrated by Wiebke Rauers

Book description: “From the world of Jitterbug, a picture book for any child who is afraid to step into the limelight and try something new!

Walter is a shy moth. He prefers to hide out in his quiet attic. But a fiery passion slumbers in him … In his heart he is a drummer, a true “Goth Moth.” There’s just one problem: Walter has no drums, let alone a band. The moth adores the music by Jitterbug (also known as Lady B. Marie)—his idol. At one of her concerts, the unimaginable happens: the Goth Moth now finds himself on stage, in the limelight.

Kai Lüftner’s rollicking rhymes tell the story of someone who flies under the radar with daring rhythm. Wiebke Rauers prepares the stage for our shy hero in such a thrilling way that you too will become a Goth Moth fan.

Rock on with Walter the Goth Moth and Lady B. Marie the Jitterbug in these musical refrains about being yourself!”

Reading Activities inspired by Goth Moth:

• Before Reading–From looking at the front cover: 
  • What do you see on the cover of the book? What kind of story do you think this will be?
  • The main character is called “Goth Moth.” What do you think that means? Have you ever heard of the word “goth” before?
  • What kind of music do you think a “Goth Moth” might like? Do you have a favorite kind of music?
  • Based on the cover illustration, what do you think the pictures inside the book will look like?
  • What questions would you like to ask the author–or the illustrator himself!–before reading the book?
• After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story: 
  • How did you feel about Walter at the beginning of the story? Did your feelings change by the end?
  • Why do you think Walter admires Jitterbug so much? If you could meet your idol, what would you say to them?
  • Walter was nervous to perform in front of others. Have you ever felt that way? How did you overcome your nerves?
  • The story talks about the difference between day and night. What are some things that are different about these two times of day?
  • Walter found the courage to share his passion for drumming. What’s something you’re passionate about that you’d like to share with others?
  • If you were friends with Walter, what would you do together?
  • Would you recommend this book to a friend? What part would you tell them about first?
• Moth Mask Making: Create your own Goth Moth mask using cardboard, paint, and other craft supplies. Decorate it with lines, stars, or anything else that inspires you. Cut out a moth shape from cardboard, then use paint, glitter, feathers, or anything else you can find to decorate it. Make it as unique as you are! You can even add pipe cleaners for antennae or googly eyes for a silly touch.
• Shadow Puppet Show: Put on a shadow puppet show inspired by the story. Use a flashlight and cut-​out shapes to recreate Walter’s journey from his attic to the stage. You can use cardboard or construction paper to create your puppets. Get creative with the shapes and sizes! Invite your friends and family to watch your show.
• Nighttime Nature Walk: With a parent or older sibling, explore the outdoors at night with a flashlight and see what creatures you can find. Remember to be respectful of their homes and habitats. Listen for the sounds of crickets, owls, or other nocturnal animals. See if you can spot any fireflies or moths! Draw pictures or take photos of what you discover.
• Rhyming Riddles: Write some rhyming riddles about bugs or music. Share them with your friends and see if they can guess the answers! Here’s an example: I have wings but cannot fly, I light up the night sky. What am I? (A firefly). You can also try writing acrostic poems using the words “MOTH” or “MUSIC.”
  
• “From Shy to Stage” Comic Strip: Illustrate a comic strip depicting Walter’s journey from shyness to performing on stage. Capture his emotions and experiences in each panel. Use speech bubbles and thought bubbles to show what Walter is thinking and feeling. You can even add sound effects like “BOOM” and “CRASH” to bring your comic strip to life.
• “Behind the Music” Interview: Imagine you’re interviewing Walter after his big performance. Write a list of questions you’d ask him about his experience, such as:
  • What was it like to play on a real drum kit? 
  • How did it feel to be on stage with Jitterbug? 
  • What advice would you give to other shy kids who have big dreams?
• Further Reading: If you loved the rock-​and-​roll energy of Goth Moth, you’ll be thrilled to discover these other picture books that feature amazing bands and musical adventures! Which of these have you already read? Which ones would you like to explore first?
  • The ABCs of Rock by Randy Diderrich, illustrated by Liz Bagby: Get ready to rock your ABCs with this fun picture book! From A to Z, discover all the coolest things about rock and roll, from amplifiers to zeppelin, with eye-​catching illustrations and fun facts along the way.
  • Elvis Is King! by Jonah Winter: Shake, rattle, and roll with the King of Rock and Roll himself, Elvis Presley! This vibrant picture book captures the energy and excitement of Elvis’s music and his impact on popular culture.
  • Punk Farm by Jarrett J. Krosoczka: On Old MacDonald’s farm, the animals aren’t just singing “E‑I-​E-​I‑O,” they’re rocking out! When the farmer goes to sleep, the cows, pigs, and chickens transform into a punk rock band, complete with mohawks and leather jackets. It’s a hilarious and rebellious story about letting loose and having fun.
  • Rock & Roll Highway: The Robbie Robertson Story by Sebastian Robertson, illustrated by Adam Gustavson: Embark on a musical journey with Robbie Robertson, a talented guitarist who found inspiration in the music of the Six Nations Indian Reservation. Follow his path from a young boy in Canada to the founder of The Band, a Grammy award winner, and a renowned film score composer. It’s an inspiring story about following your passion and making your mark on the world.
  • Rock ‘n’ Roll Soul by Susan Verde, illustrated by Matthew Cordell: Celebrate the history and legacy of rock and roll music with this vibrant picture book. From Chuck Berry to Jimi Hendrix, discover the pioneers who shaped this iconic genre and the music that continues to inspire generations.