Dwarf Nose
on Goodreads (406)
What’s inside...
After unwisely insulting a disagreeable old woman in the market, Jacob is persuaded to help carry her purchases home and unknowingly falls under a spell that lasts seven years and drastically changes his appearance. Dwarf Nose tells the story of a little boy whose complaining so angers a wicked fairy that she casts a spell on him. The tale is enriched with unforgettable characters, fantastic settings, and events, and Zwerger's illustrations evoke all the magic, mystery, and drama of this German classic.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-8
Length
49 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Dwarf Nose felt when he transformed and how would you feel in his place?
What lessons can we learn from Dwarf Nose's journey and perseverance?
Why is it important to help others, as Dwarf Nose did with the animals?
How did Dwarf Nose's skills as a cook change the way others saw him?
What did you think about the different magical elements in the story, and which one was your favorite?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use empathetic listening to fully understand your child's thoughts and perspectives, encouraging them to explore their feelings about Dwarf Nose’s challenges and triumphs.
Draw parallels between Dwarf Nose’s experiences and your child’s everyday life to make the story more relatable and the lessons more applicable.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings for the story or how they would use magical elements in their own life, fostering creativity and critical thinking.
Highlight the moral lessons embedded in the story, discussing how the virtues Dwarf Nose displayed can be instrumental in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: Dwarf Nose’s journey from being transformed into a dwarf and working in the kitchen to finding his way back home teaches children the value of resilience and not giving up, even when faced with difficult circumstances.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by staying persistent in overcoming personal challenges, whether they are academic struggles or social conflicts.
Example Lesson: Empathy and kindness
Explanation: Throughout his adventures, Dwarf Nose encounters various characters whom he treats with kindness, reflecting the importance of empathy towards others regardless of their situations or appearances.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be reflected in a child's life by encouraging them to help peers who are struggling or by showing compassion to animals and people different from themselves.
Example Lesson: The value of hard work
Explanation: Dwarf Nose’s skill and dedication as a cook eventually lead to his freedom and recognition, showing that hard work is rewarding.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to diligently pursue their studies and hobbies, understanding that their efforts will lead to personal satisfaction and success.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for one’s identity
Explanation: When Dwarf Nose regains his original form, it highlights the theme of accepting and valuing one’s own identity, despite the allure of being someone else.
Real-World Application: This can help children feel secure and proud of their unique traits and backgrounds, promoting self-confidence and self-acceptance.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: Dwarf Nose’s escape plan and solutions to the challenges he faces demonstrate the importance of critical thinking and strategic problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Children learn to approach problems thoughtfully and come up with creative solutions in their own lives, whether in resolving conflicts with friends or tackling a difficult school project.