Classic Tales for Children
What’s inside...
This text discusses two collections of children's literature by Mark Twain and Leo Tolstoy. Mark Twain's hypothetical compilation, 'Classic Tales for Children', is adapted for young readers and includes famous novels and short stories highlighting Twain’s humor and moral lessons. Leo Tolstoy's works, 'The ABC Book' and 'The New ABC Book', are inspired by his experiences running schools and feature tales from his childhood, adaptations of fables, and the fairy tale 'Ivan the Fool and His Two Brothers'. These stories showcase Tolstoy's simplicity and deep understanding of children's sensibilities.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-15
Length
193 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt during their adventure?
What would you have done differently if you were in the story?
Can you think of a time when you faced a similar problem as the character?
What did you learn from the story that you can use in your own life?
Which character did you like the most and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, give a brief introduction to each tale to help set the scene for your child.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story, asking questions like 'What would you do?'
After reading, relate the morals of the stories to everyday life situations your child encounters to enhance comprehension.
Praise your child’s responses to encourage further reflection and discussion, fostering a deeper understanding and connection with the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: Classic tales often feature characters who learn vital lessons when they choose truth over deceit, demonstrating the positive outcomes of being honest.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value transparency and truthfulness in their day-to-day interactions, reaping trust and respect from their peers and adults.
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: Many stories in this collection depict characters facing challenges, but through persistence, they eventually achieve their goals, illustrating the rewards of determination.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to keep trying in difficult situations, whether it's solving a tough math problem or learning a new skill, fostering resilience and problem-solving abilities.
Example Lesson: The consequences of selfishness
Explanation: Characters who act selfishly often face negative consequences in these tales, teaching children the benefits of considering others' feelings and needs.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of empathy and cooperation, which are essential for building healthy relationships and functioning well in team environments.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity
Explanation: Stories from different cultures included in 'Classic Tales for Children' expose young readers to a variety of traditions and perspectives, promoting inclusivity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect cultural differences, which is crucial for thriving in our globally connected world.
Example Lesson: The strength in kindness
Explanation: Numerous stories showcase characters who, despite various adversities, choose kindness and as a result, are rewarded or find happiness.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to practice kindness in their daily lives, understanding that their actions can positively impact themselves and others around them.