Fairy Tales by Hans Christian Andersen - Illustrated by Arthur Rackham
What’s inside...
This 1932 anthology presents Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tales, illustrated by Arthur Rackham. It includes stories like The Ugly Duckling, The Snow Queen, and The Little Mermaid, exploring themes of love, friendship, and heartbreak. The anthology features full-color plates and black-and-white illustrations from the Golden Age of illustration. An excerpt describes a serene Sunday in nature, contrasting with a pastor's sermon on sin and punishment. Originally published in 1932, the book is part of Pook Press's effort to republish classic children's literature using original texts and artworks, making them accessible and affordable.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-17
Length
303 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What emotions did you feel when you read the story of 'The Little Mermaid' and why?
Can you imagine a different ending for 'The Snow Queen'? What would you change and why?
How do the characters in 'The Ugly Duckling' change throughout the story? What does this teach us about how people can change?
Why do you think the characters in 'Thumbelina' made the choices they did? What would you have done in their place?
In 'The Emperor’s New Clothes', why do you think no one spoke up about the truth until the child did?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you discuss these stories, emphasize the moral and ethical lessons. Encourage your child to connect these lessons to their own experiences.
Ask your child to describe their favorite characters and why they like them. This helps them develop empathy and a deeper understanding of different perspectives.
Encourage your child to predict what might happen next in the tales or suggest alternative endings. This stimulates creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Use the illustrations in the book as a talking point, discussing how the images help tell the story and asking your child to describe what they see and how it relates to the text.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Andersen's tales often feature characters who face challenges or differences, encouraging readers to understand and empathize with them.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize emotions and perspectives of others around them, fostering kindness and cooperation in school and at home.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: Many protagonists in Andersen's stories go through hardships but ultimately find happy or meaningful resolutions, showcasing the power of resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of overcoming obstacles and not giving up when facing difficulties in their own lives.
Example Lesson: The value of honesty
Explanation: Stories like 'The Emperor’s New Clothes' focus on the consequences of deceit and the importance of telling the truth.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to practice honesty in their daily interactions and learn that truthfulness builds trust and integrity.
Example Lesson: Importance of inner beauty
Explanation: Andersen’s stories often highlight that true beauty comes from within rather than outward appearances, as seen in tales like ‘The Ugly Duckling’.
Real-World Application: Kids can appreciate and value personal qualities and character traits in themselves and others more than superficial aspects.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: Tales like ‘The Little Mermaid’ and ‘The Red Shoes’ illustrate how personal choices lead to outcomes that affect oneself and others.
Real-World Application: Children learn to consider the impacts their actions may have and understand the importance of thoughtful decision-making.