A Midsummer Night's Dream: The perfect introduction to classic literature for children (20 Shakespeare Children's Stories Book 9)
#9 in 20 Shakespeare Children's Stories (Easy Classics) Series
on Goodreads (51)
What’s inside...
An illustrated adaptation of Shakespeare's famous play, 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', retold at an easy-to-read level for readers of all ages. The play follows Hermia and her best friend, Helena, as Hermia escapes into the woods with her lover, Lysander. Demetrius, chosen by Hermia's father, and Helena, who loves Demetrius, follow them. Chaos ensues in the woods when Oberon and Titania, the Fairy King and Queen, and Puck, a mischievous fairy, meddle with a love potion, causing romantic mix-ups. This adaptation is part of Sweet Cherry Easy Classics, which adapts classic literature into illustrated stories for children, introducing timeless tales to a new generation.
Discussion points
What do you think about the way the characters in the forest interacted with each other? Who was your favorite, and why?
How did the magic in the story change the characters’ feelings and actions? Can you imagine what you would do if you had magical powers?
What lessons do you think the characters learned by the end of the story? Have you ever learned a similar lesson?
How do the different settings in the play, like the forest and the city, affect the story? Which setting would you prefer to visit?
If you could ask Shakespeare one question about this play, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters to life, adjusting your voice for different characters to spark your child’s imagination.
Discuss the characteristics of each character and link them to their real-life behaviors and consequences, to help your child understand the moral implications.
After reading, act out a favorite scene together. This not only deepens comprehension but also makes the experience more memorable.
Compare the magical elements in the story with magic from other books or movies your child knows, to build connections and enhance understanding.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. This helps them express their understanding and engagement creatively.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy and understanding
Explanation: In 'A Midsummer Night's Dream,' characters often find themselves in complicated situations that require understanding each other's perspectives, including the mix-ups caused by the magical interventions.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to consider the feelings and viewpoints of others, an essential skill in building strong relationships and effectively resolving conflicts.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: The play showcases the power of teamwork as characters must work together to overcome obstacles and misunderstandings, reinforcing the idea that collaboration can lead to positive outcomes.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to cooperate with their peers in group activities or team sports, fostering a spirit of cooperation and shared success.
Example Lesson: The consequences of deceit
Explanation: Characters in the play who engage in deception find themselves facing complications, illustrating that dishonesty can lead to undesirable outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of honesty and transparency in their actions and communications, helping them build trust with others.
Example Lesson: The transformative power of love
Explanation: The story explores different facets of love and its ability to change individuals, highlighting both its complications and its capacity to resolve conflicts.
Real-World Application: This teaches children about the positive impact of love and kindness towards others, promoting empathy and emotional intelligence in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Through various trials and tribulations, characters in the play exhibit resilience, ultimately leading to a harmonious resolution.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to remain optimistic and persistent despite challenges, nurturing a resilient mindset that is beneficial throughout life.