A Wonder Book Illustrated by Arthur Rackham
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What’s inside...
'A Wonder Book for Girls and Boys' by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a retelling of well-known Greek myths for children, narrated by Eustace Bright. The stories include 'The Gorgon's Head', 'The Golden Touch', 'The Paradise of Children', 'The Three Golden Apples', 'The Miraculous Pitcher', and 'The Chimaera'. This edition, published by Pook Press, features illustrations by Arthur Rackham, a key figure from the British Golden Age of Illustration. The book aims to preserve the art and storytelling of that period and was first published in 1851.
Age
5-17
Length
236 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Eustace Bright
Bellerophon
Philemon
Hercules
Epimetheus
King Midas
Perseus
Baucis
Pandora
Marygold
Discussion points
How do you think the children in the stories felt when they encountered magical beings?
What lessons can we learn from the challenges the characters faced?
If you could have a magical power like one of the characters, what would it be and why?
Which story was your favorite and what did you like most about it?
How would you help a friend who found themselves in a situation similar to one of the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the magical elements of the stories to life, altering your tone and pace to match the mood of the narrative.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves within the story, asking questions like 'What would you do in this situation?'
Relate the themes of the stories to your child’s everyday experiences, such as dealing with difficult tasks or understanding others.
After reading, ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. Discuss what they've drawn and why they chose that particular moment.
Point out the moral lessons subtly woven into each tale and relate them to real-life scenarios, enhancing moral understanding and empathy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of humility
Explanation: In Hawthorne's reinterpretation of classic Greek myths, characters who display humility are often rewarded, while those with hubris face consequences. This can be seen in the story of King Midas, whose greed turns against him.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of being humble and not letting pride or greed dictate their actions. They can practice this by sharing, listening to others, and not boasting.
Example Lesson: The power of perseverance
Explanation: Several stories, like 'The Three Golden Apples', show heroes overcoming obstacles through persistence. Hercules demonstrates perseverance as he undertakes his quest for the golden apples.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to keep trying despite difficulties, whether in school, sports, or personal goals. It teaches them that persistence often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Consequences of deceit
Explanation: In the tale of 'The Miraculous Pitcher', the characters who are deceitful end up facing negative outcomes, while honesty is rewarded. This theme highlights the importance of truthfulness.
Real-World Application: Children can understand the importance of honesty in building trust and integrity in relationships. Encourages telling the truth even in difficult situations.
Example Lesson: Value of intelligence and cunning
Explanation: In 'The Chimæra', Bellerophon succeeds not just through strength, but by using his wits to overcome challenges. This emphasizes the importance of cleverness and intellect.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to use their brains to solve problems, think critically, and be innovative in their approach to challenges both in academic and social settings.
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness
Explanation: Many stories portray kindness as a virtue that leads to positive outcomes for characters. Acts of kindness are often reciprocated and build goodwill.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the benefits of being kind to others, which can lead to friendships and a supportive community. Encourages empathy and helping those in need.