2018 by
on Goodreads (18)
What’s inside...
When Aladdin finds his long-lost uncle, he is promised riches beyond his dreams. But is everything what it seems? The ancient tale of mystery, magic and adventure, with dusty lamps, beautiful princesses and wish-granting genies, is brought to life in this picture book with stunning illustrations by Lorena Alvarez.
Why read this book
- Timeless tale of magic, adventure, and daring choices.
- Encourages curiosity and exploration of different cultures.
- Illustrates the importance of honesty and resourcefulness.
- Supports language development and reading comprehension skills.
The Big Picture
- Illustrates significance of honesty and hard work.
- Encourages resilience and bravery in adversity.
- Discusses impacts of choices on future outcomes.
- Promotes in-depth conversation on ethical dilemmas.
Diversity & Representation
- Showcases Middle Eastern culture through vibrant settings and characters.
- Introduces diverse characters with unique backgrounds and personalities.
- Promotes cultural understanding and appreciation through storytelling.
Age
3-5
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
intermediate
Character Compass
Discussion points
How do you think Aladdin felt when he first discovered the magic lamp?
What would you wish for if you had a genie like in the story, and why?
How did Aladdin's life change after meeting the genie?
What do you think about the choices Aladdin made? Would you have done anything differently?
What does the story of Aladdin teach us about the importance of honesty and being true to ourselves?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing Aladdin's feelings and actions, encourage your child to relate the scenarios to their own experiences to foster empathy and deeper understanding.
When talking about wishes, discuss the difference between wants and needs to help them think critically about priorities and values.
Use examples from the book to discuss the consequences of decisions, guiding children to consider outcomes of their choices in real life.
Reinforce the moral lessons from the book by asking your child how those lessons could be applied in their day-to-day life.
Celebrate your child’s responses to foster confidence in their thoughts and opinions, reinforcing a positive reading experience.
What parents love
Loves the vibrant, culturally rich illustrations.
Appreciates the lessons on honesty and bravery.
Engaging and easy-to-follow plot for young children.
Perfect mix of fun and moral learning.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Honesty is the best policy
Explanation: Throughout 'Aladdin', the protagonist learns that deceit and dishonesty bring trouble, while honesty leads to true happiness. His adventures underscore the repercussions of lying and the ultimate rewards of being truthful.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding that truthfulness builds trust and strengthens relationships, both with peers and adults.
Example Lesson: The value of humility
Explanation: Aladdin, despite his newfound wealth and power, learns that humility and kindness are more valuable than material possessions. This is highlighted when he uses his wishes for others' benefits rather than his own.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to value and respect others regardless of their social status or wealth, fostering a sense of equality and compassion in their interactions.
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: Aladdin faces numerous challenges but his persistent efforts eventually lead to success. His determination to overcome obstacles serves as a pivotal part of his journey.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to stay determined in the face of challenges, whether it's solving a difficult puzzle, learning a new skill, or standing up for what they believe in.
Example Lesson: The consequences of greed
Explanation: Characters in the book who are driven by greed eventually find themselves in worse circumstances. This shows that selfish desires can lead to negative outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children can understand the importance of being content with what they have and the benefits of sharing with others instead of always wanting more.
Example Lesson: Making wise choices
Explanation: Aladdin's story highlights the importance of making thoughtful decisions, particularly when he chooses how to use his wishes. His choices reflect his values and priorities and shape his future.
Real-World Application: This can help children think about the outcomes of their choices and encourage them to consider long-term consequences over immediate gratification.