Fearless Fairy Tales
on Goodreads (60)
What’s inside...
FEARLESS FAIRY TALES is a comedic and modern twist on classic bedtime stories, featuring characters like Trumplestiltskin, Sleeping Brainy, and the Gingerbread Kid. The collection tackles contemporary issues such as gender equality, environmental pollution, and equal pay through humor and satire. Written by Konnie Huq and James Kay with illustrations by Rikin Parekh, this anthology is a refreshing update to traditional tales, providing both young and older readers with new narratives that challenge old-fashioned and sexist themes.
Age
7-12
Length
176 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think about the way the characters in the stories faced their fears?
If you were in the story, which magical item would you choose to help you on your journey?
How do the fairy tales in the book differ from traditional fairy tales you know?
What lesson do you think the main characters learned by the end of the stories?
Which character's story resonated with you the most and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voices for different characters to make the reading session more lively and engaging.
After reading a tale, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character. This can spark conversation about story details and character motivations.
Relate the challenges faced by characters in the book to real-life situations your child might encounter, making it a teachable moment.
Praise your child for their thoughts and responses to your questions to build their confidence in expressing themselves.
Discuss the twists in the fairy tales compared to traditional ones, highlighting the creativity and the morals behind the stories.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing diversity
Explanation: The stories in 'Fearless Fairy Tales' offer twists on traditional tales, featuring diverse characters and settings. This helps children see different perspectives and backgrounds.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect people from various cultures and backgrounds in their everyday interactions at school or in the community.
Example Lesson: Importance of resilience
Explanation: Characters in the book often face challenges or adversities, showing persistence and courage throughout their journeys.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this resilience by tackling their own challenges, such as learning a new skill or dealing with changes like moving to a new school.
Example Lesson: Value of kindness
Explanation: Many stories in 'Fearless Fairy Tales' highlight acts of kindness and the positive impacts these acts have on others.
Real-World Application: Children can practice kindness in real life by sharing, helping a friend in need, or supporting family members.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking
Explanation: The book encourages questioning norms and thinking critically about the world, as characters often solve problems in unconventional ways.
Real-World Application: This skill helps children in decision-making and problem-solving in schoolwork and peer relationships.
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance
Explanation: Characters in the book learn to accept and embrace their unique traits and qualities, promoting a positive self-image.
Real-World Application: This lesson supports children in developing confidence and a healthy self-esteem, crucial as they grow and face social pressures.