Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator
#2 of 2 in Charlie Bucket Series
on Goodreads (116,040)
What’s inside...
'Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator' is the sequel to 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' and continues the adventures of young Charlie Bucket and the eccentric chocolatier Willy Wonka. After inheriting the chocolate factory, Charlie, his family, and Wonka embark on a journey in the Great Glass Elevator. The elevator accidentally launches into space, where they dock with a space hotel and encounter shape-shifting aliens called Vermicious Knids. With clever maneuvers, they manage to return to Earth. Back at the factory, Wonka attempts to use a rejuvenation formula on Charlie's elderly grandparents, leading to chaos and further magical mishaps. The story combines elements of fantasy, humor, and satire, continuing Dahl's exploration of themes such as greed, consequences, and the fantastical. This collectable hardcover edition will feature a beautiful cover and deluxe packaging, including purple interior text and illustrations!
Discussion points
How do you think Charlie felt when he was in the Great Glass Elevator? What would you feel in his place?
The elevator took Charlie on some unexpected journeys. What does this tell us about dealing with unexpected situations?
Why do you think Willy Wonka chose to give the factory to Charlie? What qualities does Charlie have that make him a good choice?
What are some of the different worlds they visit in the elevator and how do they differ from our world?
If you had a chance to create a magical invention like the Great Glass Elevator, what would it do and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, focus on the emotional journey of the characters to help children connect with their own feelings.
Encourage children to imagine themselves in the story and ask what decisions they would make in similar situations.
Link discussions to real-life scenarios where they may face unexpected challenges, emphasizing the adaptive and positive attitudes of the characters.
Ask your child to describe their favorite part of the book and delve deeper into what specifically about it they enjoyed, encouraging them to think critically about storytelling elements.
Discuss the morals and lessons learned from the story, and how these lessons can be applied in everyday life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of courage and curiosity
Explanation: As Charlie Bucket journeys through the great glass elevator with Willy Wonka, he faces various challenges and strange encounters that require bravery and an inquisitive mind.
Real-World Application: Children learn to embrace new experiences and tackle challenges with a positive attitude, which is vital in school and when meeting new people.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: Charlie, his family, and Willy Wonka must work together to navigate the peculiar situations they encounter. Their success often depends on their cooperation and collective problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of collaborating with others to achieve common goals, whether it's in school projects or family activities.
Example Lesson: The consequences of greed and impulsivity
Explanation: The book showcases characters who face negative outcomes due to their greedy desires and impulsive decisions, such as the over-ambitious statesmen and envious spies.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of thinking before acting and the virtues of being content with what they have, which are crucial for forming healthy habits and relationships.
Example Lesson: Respect for elders
Explanation: Charlie’s caring interaction with his grandparents, especially Grandpa Joe, throughout their adventure highlights the respect and love he has for them, contrasting with the portrayal of other, less respectful characters.
Real-World Application: This underscores the importance of respecting and valuing the elderly in the family and community, teaching children the significance of familial bonds and heritage.