Beauty & the Beast & Other Stories
What’s inside...
Traditional fairy tales are given new life in this collection which includes the Tinder Box, Bluebeard, Rapunzel, Hansel and Gretel and Beauty and the Beast. It is suitable for ages 5-10. A magical collection of fairy tales, including: Beauty and the Beast, Hansel and Gretel, The Tinderbox, Rapunzel, Vipers and Pearls, Bluebeard, The Girl Who Stepped On a Loaf, Something More.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made the Beast seem scary at first, and what changed your mind about him as the story progressed?
Why do you think Beauty decided to return to the Beast even though she could have stayed home?
How do you think the characters felt when they realized their mistakes? Have you ever felt that way?
If you were in Beauty’s place, what would you have done differently and why?
What lessons do you think we can learn about kindness and judging others based on this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation with your child by asking about their favorite part of the story and why it stood out to them. This can provide insights into their thoughts and feelings about the themes.
Encourage your child to express their emotions about the characters’ journeys. This helps in understanding their perspective and relating it to their own experiences.
Discuss the characters’ decisions and actions, and ask your child what they might have done in similar situations. This helps build critical thinking and empathy.
Use the story as a springboard to discuss the importance of not judging others by appearances. Share personal experiences where initial impressions have been proved wrong, to connect the theme to real life.
Highlight the transformations of the characters both physically and emotionally, and discuss with your child how people can change over time, emphasizing the power of forgiveness and second chances.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Kindness and compassion
Explanation: In 'Beauty & the Beast,' Beauty's kindness transforms the Beast into a prince, illustrating that compassion can bring out the best in others.
Real-World Application: Children learn that treating others with kindness can lead to positive changes and friendships, teaching them to be compassionate in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Looking beyond appearances
Explanation: Beauty sees past the Beast's fearsome exterior to his gentle nature, which teaches that true worth lies beyond outward appearances.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to appreciate and value people for their inner qualities rather than judging based on looks.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: Beauty's decision to stay at the Beast’s castle, despite her fears, exemplifies courage in the face of the unknown.
Real-World Application: This story empowers children to confront their fears and embrace new experiences, even when they feel intimidated.
Example Lesson: The importance of sacrifice
Explanation: Beauty sacrifices her freedom for her father's safety, showing that love often involves personal sacrifice.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of selflessness and putting the needs of loved ones before their own.
Example Lesson: The power of redemption
Explanation: The Beast's transformation back into a prince demonstrates that individuals can change for the better and redeem themselves.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that everyone has the capacity for change and encourages them to seek personal growth and improvement.