Bea Wolf
What’s inside...
A modern middle-grade graphic novel retelling of Beowulf, featuring a gang of troublemaking kids who must defend their tree house from a fun-hating adult who can instantly turn children into grown-ups. This adult, Grindle, who is the guardian of gloom, lays siege on Treeheart, a sanctuary created by kids where generations have made merry. As Grindle's onslaught transforms many kids into adults, the survivors call for a savior, Bea Wolf, whose will is unbreakable and appetite for mischief is unbounded.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-7
Length
208 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Bea Wolf felt when she first arrived in the new forest? How would you feel in a new place?
Bea Wolf made some friends in the story. What qualities do you think make someone a good friend?
Can you think of a time when you were brave like Bea Wolf? What happened?
If you could add another character to the story, who would they be and what would they do?
How do you think the story would change if it took place in a city instead of a forest?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voices for different characters to make the story more immersive and fun for your child.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next in the story before turning the page, enhancing their inference skills.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. This helps deepen their connection and recall of the story.
Connect the story's themes to your child's personal experiences by discussing similar situations they've faced and how they felt during those times.
Discuss the moral of the story and its applicability to everyday life, which aids in developing a child’s ethical reasoning.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Kindness
Explanation: Throughout the tale, characters display acts of kindness towards each other, teaching the importance of compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be kind to their peers and help others in need, building stronger friendships and a more supportive community.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: The protagonist faces challenges bravely, showcasing that courage is not the absence of fear but the triumph over it.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to face their own fears, whether speaking in front of the class or trying out for a sports team.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The main character takes responsibility for their actions, understanding the impact of their choices.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to own their actions, whether it is admitting to a mistake or fulfilling a promise.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Characters persist through difficult situations, highlighting the value of not giving up despite obstacles.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to persevere with their studies or hobbies, even when they find them challenging.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The story promotes understanding others' feelings and perspectives, fostering emotional intelligence.
Real-World Application: Helps children to better relate to peers who may be different from them, promoting inclusivity and understanding.