Eoin Colfer's Legend of the Worst Boy in the World
#3 of 3 in The Legend Of... Series
on Goodreads (495)
What’s inside...
Eoin Colfer's 'Legend of the Worst Boy in the World' tells the story of a young boy named Will, who believes he has the worst life ever. With four brothers, each with their own distinct and troublesome personalities, Will feels overlooked and unappreciated in his chaotic family. Seeking someone to confide in, Will turns to his grandfather for sympathy and advice. Grandad, a man with a penchant for storytelling, decides to share his own tales of a mischievous boy who always seemed to get into worse trouble than Will. Through these stories, Will learns valuable lessons about perspective, understanding that his life might not be as terrible as he initially thought. The book is a humorous and heartwarming tale that teaches young readers about the importance of family, the power of storytelling, and the idea that things may not always be as bad as they seem.
Discussion points
What do you think made Will feel like he was the worst boy in the world?
How did Will's relationship with his brother Marty affect his feelings and actions?
What are some ways Will tried to solve his problems and which do you think was the most effective?
How would you help a friend who felt like Will did in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Emphasize that everyone feels overwhelmed or down at times, just like Will, and that it's okay to feel that way.
Encourage your child to express how they might feel in Will’s situations, and share your own similar experiences to create a connected dialogue.
Highlight the importance of understanding and supportive relationships. Discuss the role of family and friends in dealing with personal challenges, as seen in Will’s interactions with his brother.
Ask your child what advice they would give to Will if they were his friend, fostering empathy and problem-solving skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In the story, the protagonist learns to understand and empathize with his brother's struggles and feelings, despite initially seeing him as a rival.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize and validate the emotions of their siblings or peers, helping to nurture healthier relationships.
Example Lesson: Creativity as a Problem-Solving Tool
Explanation: The character uses his imagination to solve problems and deal with feelings of inadequacy, showcasing the power of creative thinking.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their creativity to address challenges and express themselves in unique ways.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Honesty
Explanation: The protagonist faces consequences for small lies and realizes the importance of being honest, especially with family members.
Real-World Application: It teaches children that honesty builds trust and is crucial in maintaining meaningful relationships.