Castle: Medieval Days and Knights
What’s inside...
This pop-up book by national bestselling artists Robert Sabuda and Matthew Reinhart takes readers on a journey to the Middle Ages. It explores life in a castle, the knights who protect it, and the village outside. Over fifteen intricate pop-ups accompany the engaging text by Kyle Olmon, guiding readers through knighting ceremonies, battles, and feasts. The true majesty of castles is fully realized in stunning 3-dimensional illustrations by Tracy Sabin, providing a fascinating look at history.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
6 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think life was like living in a medieval castle?
How do you think knights trained for their duties?
Can you describe the different roles people had in the castle?
What would you do if you were a king or queen of a castle?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the medieval setting, asking how they would feel and what they would do.
Discuss the illustrations and ask your child to point out details that catch their eye, helping them connect visually with the story.
Relate the story to current roles in society, helping your child draw parallels between the past and present.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Historical Contexts
Explanation: Through exploring medieval castles and the lives of knights, the book provides children with a vivid picture of the Middle Ages.
Real-World Application: This helps children appreciate how history shapes our modern world and encourages curiosity about different historical periods.
Example Lesson: Importance of Courage and Valor
Explanation: Knights are often portrayed in the book showing bravery and courage, which were highly valued during medieval times.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of being brave when facing new challenges or when standing up for what is right.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The detailed and interactive design of the book, with flaps and pop-up features, stimulates creative thinking and imagination.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to engage in creative play and explore their own artistic abilities through drawing, building, or storytelling.
Example Lesson: Roles and Responsibilities
Explanation: The book outlines various roles within a castle, from lords and ladies to blacksmiths and knights, highlighting the community and hierarchy.
Real-World Application: Children can learn about different roles in a community and the importance of contributing through their own responsibilities at home or in school.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: Many tasks in a castle required cooperation, such as defending the castle or preparing for a feast.
Real-World Application: This underscores the importance of working together to achieve common goals, which can be applied in group projects or family activities.