Blodin the Beast
What’s inside...
Blodin the Beast stalks the land, breathing fire and razing villages to ruins. Who or what can end this tyranny? Only wise old Shanga, weaving his strange carpet, knows how to destroy the monster - but he is too old to cross the mountains that never end… Michael Morpurgo's timeless story of a young boy's quest to save his people, illustrated with Christina Balit's glowing mosaic-like paintings, will entrance children of every age.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Blodin the Beast feels when he is misunderstood by others?
How would you have reacted if you met Blodin the Beast?
What can we learn from the way characters in the story treat Blodin?
Can you think of a time when you felt like Blodin and what helped you feel better?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading: Change your tone and volume when reading different characters to make the story more engaging.
Ask reflective questions: After reading, ask your child how they might feel in similar situations as the characters.
Connect to personal experiences: Relate themes from the book to real-life situations your child may have encountered to deepen their understanding.
Encourage empathy: Discuss the importance of understanding and kindness towards others who may seem different.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of danger
Explanation: The protagonist shows bravery when confronting Blodin the Beast, demonstrating that courage is not the absence of fear, but the determination to face it.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to confront their fears, whether it’s approaching a new social situation or standing up for what’s right, even when they feel scared.
Example Lesson: The power of clever thinking
Explanation: The story highlights how the protagonist uses wit and intelligence to outsmart Blodin, teaching that brains often triumph over brawn.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their intellect and creativity to solve problems, rather than relying solely on physical strength.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: Characters in the book collaborate to overcome challenges, showing that teamwork can achieve what individuals alone cannot.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of working together with peers or family to reach a common goal, fostering a spirit of cooperation and collaboration.