#IBLPKidLit: From Page to Practice– The IB Learner Profile Reflections

Posted on by Eleanor Duggan

As we close this month on exploring the IB Learner Profile through global children’s literature, let’s reflect on the stories that have shaped our journey. From courageous risk-takers to compassionate caring leaders, each character we met brought these attributes to life in various unique ways. The #IBLPKidLit isn’t just something we find in stories—it’s something we embody in our daily lives.  Stories shape our understanding of the world, and through the lens of inquiry, care, and open-mindedness, we’ve traveled across cultures, perspectives, and ideas. May we continue to seek knowledge, challenge assumptions, and embrace diverse voices. Keep asking big questions, thinking critically, and seeing the world through the eyes of a global reader. What was your favorite discovery during #IBLPKidLit month? Which Learner Profile trait resonated with you the most? What book will you pick up next to continue your learning adventure? How will you carry it forward?

#IBLPKidLit March:

Though our exploration of #IBLPKidLit has come to an end, the learning continues, and the journey is far from over! Check out the #IBLPKidLit list for titles that bring the IB Learner Profile and transdisciplinary themes to life. While many of these books were highlighted throughout #IBLPKidLit, there are still countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered! You’ll also notice that many titles embody multiple attributes and/or seamlessly connect with the transdisciplinary themes, enriching discussions and inquiry. A standout example is coming in the next section! Let’s continue building this resource together—readers, educators, and librarians worldwide, I invite you to collaborate and expand this list with even more incredible books written/illustrated by global authors and illustrators!

Before we officially wrap up #IBLPKidLit month, I have one last surprise for you all—Turtles of the Midnight Moon by María José Fitzgerald, a book that cleverly embodies every IB Learner Profile attribute and transdisciplinary theme!

In Turtles of the Midnight Moon by Maria José Fitzgerald, each character demonstrates an IB Learner Profile attribute, enriching the novel’s themes of curiosity, ethics, and environmental stewardship. Barana exemplifies the Thinker trait as she critically analyzes clues and strategizes to uncover the poachers, while Abby, an Inquirer, eagerly explores her Honduran heritage. Abby’s father, a persuasive Communicator, convinces his wife to let Abby join him, and Abby’s Reflective mother carefully considers her daughter’s need for self-discovery. Tulu, Barana’s Caring brother, supports his family and community with kindness, whereas María, a Knowledgeable sea turtle protector, deeply understands marine conservation despite her questionable actions. Barana’s mother strives to be Balanced, maintaining harmony at home, while her Principled father teaches his children the importance of rules and ethics. Bela, Barana’s Open-Minded grandmother, warmly welcomes Abby and her father, embracing cultural exchange. Finally, Matías and Nati, Risk-Takers, take bold steps to protect sea turtles, despite the uncertainty of their choices. Together, these characters highlight the values of inquiry, integrity, and action in their own way, making the book a fine example of how our world is shaped by all kinds of unique individuals.

Furthermore, Turtles of the Midnight Moon also aligns beautifully with the 6 IB Transdisciplinary Themes, weaving together themes of identity, care of environment, and social responsibility. Under Who We Are, the novel explores identity and belonging through Abby’s bicultural background and Barana’s deep connection to her community and sea turtles, while both girls experience significant personal growth. Where We Are in Place and Time is reflected in the rich Honduran cultural context, showcasing the balance between tradition and modernity, alongside a strong emphasis on environmental awareness and conservation. The theme of How We Express Ourselves emerges through Abby’s photography as a form of self-expression and the role of storytelling in their investigation, fostering communication and connection. How the World Works is explored through environmental and social systems, highlighting the life cycle of sea turtles and the complex community dynamics involved in solving the poaching mystery. Under How We Organize Ourselves, the novel emphasizes the power of community and cooperation, as well as the social responsibility needed to combat environmental threats like poaching. Finally, Sharing the Planet is central to the story, with a focus on conservation, sustainability, and global citizenship, encouraging readers to reflect on their role in protecting the natural world. Through these themes, Turtles of the Midnight Moon offers a thought-provoking story that intertwines personal discovery with broader global issues, making it an ideal exploration of various IB themes.

This month has been a celebration of stories that inspire, challenge, and connect us. From the quiet power of reflection to the boldness of risk-taking, global children’s literature has shown us how the IB Learner Profile comes to life in every corner of the world.  Thank you for joining me in #IBLPKidLit to celebrate literature that sparks curiosity, fosters empathy, and inspires action. Which IB Learner Profile trait resonated most with you this month? And what’s next on your reading list? Let’s keep turning pages and changing the world!

Turtles of the Midnight Moon 

Written by Maria José Fitzgerald

2025, Yearling

ISBN: 9780593488737

Eleanor Duggan is a passionate children’s book reader, a storytelling enchantress, an aspiring globetrotter, a part-time book crafter, and an impassioned foodie who is a cooking disaster. She is more known as an international school teacher-librarian, Founder of the Toucan Award, and the International Association of School Librarianship (IASL) Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean. She is a Taiwanese with a Belgian soul and is currently enjoying her life as a citizen of the world with her daughter and their 2 one-of-a-kind cats. You may find her via The Third Culture Librarian

GLLI Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in posts on this site are the individual author’s and are not indicative of the views of Global Literature in Libraries Initiative.

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