Night Job
Book Summary:
Night Job tells the story of a young boy who accompanies his father to work the night shift as a custodian at a school. While the rest of the town sleeps, they clean classrooms, hallways, and offices, and the boy begins to understand the pride his father takes in his work. Through their quiet nighttime routine, the story highlights dignity, responsibility, and the important but often unseen labor that keeps communities functioning.
Recommended Questions:
Why is the father’s night job important for both his family and the community?
How does this time help the father and son build relationship with each other? What can this teach us about how we approach our work and time together?
How does working at night affect the father and son’s daily life? What sacrifices do they make?
Why might custodial work sometimes go unnoticed or undervalued? How can we change this?
How would the school be different if no one cleaned or cared for it at night?
Why do you think the author chose to show the quiet, behind-the-scenes work that many people do not see?
What other jobs might go unnoticed and why are they also important?
How would the school be different if no one cleaned or cared for it at night?
NCSS Theme 3: People, Places and the Environment
This book aligns with People, Places, and Environments because it shows how individuals contribute to maintaining important community spaces like schools. Students see how the father’s work shapes the school environment and supports the learning of others, illustrating how people’s roles connect to the places where communities gather and grow.
Social Justice Anchor Standard 11: Recognize Stereotypes
Night Job challenges stereotypes about custodial work and encourages students to see the father as an individual rather than defining him by his job. Through the boy’s perspective, readers come to understand the father’s pride, dedication, and sacrifice, recognizing his humanity beyond common assumptions about his role.
WA Economics 2: Understands the components of an economic system
Night Job illustrates how the father’s work is essential to meeting community needs and supporting his family. The story allows students to analyze how economic roles, labor, and personal choices affect both family well-being and the larger community, emphasizing the value and consequences of work.
