Alexander the Great
Kids who ruled Series
on Goodreads (3)
What’s inside...
The Kids Who Ruled series offers a biography of Alexander the Great of Macedonia, highlighting his life and accomplishments as a young ruler. The series features full-color illustrations and factual histories, bringing the world and times of these youthful leaders to life. Each biography includes details on schooling, family life, culture, and religion during the ruler's reign, supplementing curriculum-based learning in social studies and history. Additional educational features include a glossary, index, timeline, and map, along with fun fact boxes integrated onto each spread.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-10
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Alexander The Great
Discussion points
What qualities do you think made Alexander 'Great'? How can you apply these qualities in your own life?
Alexander achieved many things at a young age. What are some goals you would like to achieve while you are young?
How did Alexander's relationship with his horse, Bucephalus, show the importance of trust and friendship?
Alexander created a huge empire and connected different cultures. Why do you think understanding different cultures is important today?
If you were a leader like Alexander, what positive changes would you want to bring to the world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their own experiences with Alexander's, focusing on themes of friendship, leadership, and ambition.
Discuss the historical context of Alexander’s time and how leadership roles have evolved over the centuries.
Use a map to trace Alexander’s conquests and help visually connect the story to the real world, enhancing geographical knowledge.
Discuss the moral and ethical implications of Alexander's decisions to enhance critical thinking.
Ask your child to imagine their own adventures and how they would handle similar challenges faced by Alexander, fostering creativity and problem solving.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Leadership and Responsibility
Explanation: The book portrays Alexander the Great's leadership skills as he led vast armies and conquered numerous territories. His strategic thinking and ability to make tough decisions demonstrate effective leadership.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these principles by taking initiative in group projects, helping to organize activities, and making responsible choices when playing with friends or siblings.
Example Lesson: Perseverance Through Adversity
Explanation: Alexander faced many challenges and setbacks during his conquests, yet he persevered. His resilience is shown as he continuously strategized and adapted to new situations.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of not giving up in the face of difficulties, whether they are struggling with a tough subject in school or facing challenges in sports or other extracurricular activities.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: Alexander's quest was not only for territory but also for knowledge. He encouraged learning and was known for his curiosity about different cultures and sciences.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to be curious about the world around them, engage in reading, explore different cultures through books, and ask questions to gain a deeper understanding of various subjects.
Example Lesson: Respect for Diverse Cultures
Explanation: Throughout his travels, Alexander encountered and embraced many different cultures, integrating them into his empire and respecting their customs and traditions.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the value of diversity and teach them to respect people from different backgrounds and cultures in their school and community.