History of the Wolf Moon
The first full moon of the year is called the "Wolf Moon". This name has been used by Native Americans and dates back as far as Medieval Europe. The name comes from the fact that you can hear wolves howling in the dead of winter. Originally, it was thought they howled because of the lack of food, but now we know they howl to stake their territory, locate their pack and hunt. The wolves can be heard howling at night which is why they are associated with the moon and the night sky.
In other places, the first full moon has other names, but commonly refer to the harsh cold of the winter season. It has also been called "Cold Moon", "Freeze Up Moon", "Severe Moon" and "Frost Exploding Moon".
According to folklore, a bright first moon suggests rain and a bountiful harvest, where a red-tinted moon hints at a dry year. A halo around the moon suggests wet or stormy weather.
Read About the Wolf Moon
Virgina Wolf is a story of two sisters playing pretend and one is acting rather wolfish. There is beautiful artwork in this story and has some fun elements using shadows!
Walk With a Wolf tells the story of a wolf in the wild. It follows her along her journey through the cold weather and has beautiful watercolor illustrations.
This book incorporates themes of friendship and nature. It has deservedly won several awards and can be used to study winter, forest animals, friendship and many other things!
Wolf in the Snow is a wordless picture book that tells that tale of a child and a wolf that help each other find their families on a snowy day. The story is visually appealing and creates so much good conversation.
Learn About Wolves
National Geographic has a fun site that can show you where wolves live and fun facts about wolves.
The International Wolf Center has some great pictures of wolves in the wild as well as resources for learning about wolves. If you're near Minnesota they offer lots of fun experience about wolves as well!
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