Cider with Rosie: A Memoir (The Autobiographical Trilogy Book 1)
#1 of 3 in The Autobiographical Trilogy Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (14)
What’s inside...
The 'Heinemann Plays' series offers contemporary drama and classic plays in durable classroom editions. 'Cider with Rosie', dramatized by James Roose-Evans, is a poignant portrayal of Laurie Lee's childhood in a Cotswold village. The stage adaptation captures warm memories and cultural shifts in rural England during the twentieth century. It features a cast of 4 women and 5 men, balancing opportunities for actors. The play evokes a bygone era, blending Laurie's nostalgic recollections with humorous reflections on his adolescence and his mother's influence amidst the backdrop of the Great War.
Character compass
Laurie Lee
Mother
Discussion points
How do you think Laurie Lee felt about his childhood and the village he grew up in?
What are some differences and similarities between your life and Laurie's life in the book?
Why do you think Laurie Lee titled the book 'Cider with Rosie'? What does Rosie represent in his life?
Can you describe how the seasons are portrayed in the book? Which season would you like to experience in Laurie's village?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think deeply about the setting and time period of the book. Ask them to visualize Laurie’s village and compare it to their own environment. Highlight the emotional and sensory descriptions in Lee’s writing to help your child connect with the narrative. Discuss the themes of growth and change, and relate them to your child’s own experiences and lessons learned.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of Family and Community
Explanation: In 'Cider with Rosie', the importance of family and community is emphasized through the depiction of Laurie Lee's experiences growing up in a tight-knit village.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and contribute to their own families and communities, recognizing the support and love these social structures offer.
Example Lesson: Cherishing Childhood Memories
Explanation: The narrative powerfully captures the fleeting nature of childhood, encouraging readers to cherish their own childhood memories.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to value and hold onto their childhood experiences, forming a foundation for their personal identities and histories.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Change
Explanation: Laurie Lee's story showcases his resilience as he navigates through the changes in his life and surroundings, demonstrating adaptability.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace change positively, using it as an opportunity for personal growth and development.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Imagination
Explanation: The memoir highlights the role of imagination in Laurie’s upbringing, showing how it helped him cope with life's challenges.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their imagination not just for play, but as a tool for problem-solving and emotional resilience.