Arrow to the Sun

A boy sets out to find his father, the Lord of the Sun, and must pass through four ceremonial chambers — the kiva of lions, snakes, bees, and lightning — to prove he belongs.

For the kid drawn to quests and trials of courage, the boy's journey through four kivas of lions, snakes, bees, and lightning turns a search for a father into a test of true belonging.

• Big idea: Claiming who you are takes courage and trial, not just birthright.
• Vibes: Bold, stately, and reverent, with the hush of ceremony rather than the rush of adventure.

• are drawn to stories about identity and belonging
• enjoy bold geometric art and striking color
• like quests with tests to overcome
• are curious about Pueblo Indian art and legend

• Story & problem-solving: Why do you think the boy has to pass through the kiva of lions, the kiva of snakes, the kiva of bees, and the kiva of lightning before he can find his father?
• Imagination: Which of the four kivas — lions, snakes, bees, or lightning — do you think would be the hardest to pass through, and why?
• Real-life connection: Have you ever had to prove you were ready for something before you were allowed to do it?
• Art & noticing: What do you notice about the shapes and colors Gerald McDermott uses to show the Lord of the Sun?
• Feelings & empathy: How do you think the boy felt when he finally stood before his father, the Lord of the Sun?