Children of the Forest
What’s inside...
Two siblings set off for adventure in the untamed wilds of their own backyard. In 'Children of the Forest,' a serious text is paired with charming illustrations that depict the mundane truth of the kids' adventurous roaming, portraying it as an ode to imaginative play and the wild fun that can be had close to home. The children, self-proclaimed as 'children of the forest' raised by wolves, pilfer supplies from their home and face various backyard 'dangers,' such as a house cat and their dog, using their imagination to transform their surroundings into a thrilling wilderness adventure.
Age
2-5
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think each character in the forest learns by the end of the story?
If you were one of the Children of the Forest, which activities would you enjoy doing the most?
How do the characters in the book help each other?
What kind of problems do the Children of the Forest face and how do they solve them?
How do you think the forest changes as the seasons go by in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe the forest setting. Ask them what sounds and sights they might experience if they were in the story.
As you read through the pages, pause to ask your child how they think a character is feeling, especially when faced with challenges.
Use the illustrations in the book to ask your child to point out details or ask them what they notice about the drawing style.
After reading the book, have your child draw their favorite forest scene or character and explain why they chose it.
Connect the story to real life by discussing with your child the importance of teamwork and helping others as shown by the characters in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: In 'Children of the Forest', the characters showcase a deep appreciation and care for their forest home, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural habitats.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be conscious about the environment around them, engaging in activities like recycling, conserving water, and participating in local clean-up events.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Community
Explanation: The story portrays forest creatures working together to solve problems, illustrating the power of collective effort and community support.
Real-World Application: This narrative encourages children to collaborate with peers in school projects and community activities, fostering a sense of solidarity and cooperation.
Example Lesson: Courage and Resilience
Explanation: As the forest children face various challenges, they exhibit bravery and resilience, overcoming obstacles with determination.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to face their own challenges with courage, whether it's trying new activities, facing academic challenges, or standing up for what's right.
Example Lesson: Importance of Imagination
Explanation: The magical elements within the book stimulate the imagination, showing how creativity can create solutions.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to use their imagination in creative storytelling, art projects, and problem solving in daily life.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Characters in the book demonstrate empathy by helping each other, reflecting the importance of understanding and supporting others emotionally.
Real-World Application: This can be mirrored in a child’s life by encouraging them to be attentive and supportive friends, understanding different perspectives and emotions.