Ferdinandus Taurus: First Edition in Latin
What’s inside...
Ferdinand is a peaceful bull who loves to sit quietly and smell flowers. Despite his gentle nature, he is mistakenly taken to a bullfight in Madrid after getting stung by a bee and displaying seemingly fierce behavior. In the ring, Ferdinand refuses to fight, choosing instead to sit and smell the flowers in the audience's hair. His calm demeanor frustrates the matador and his helpers who cannot provoke him to fight. This childhood classic is beautifully illustrated in black-and-white by Robert Lawson.
Age
8-11
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Ferdinand
Discussion points
How do you think Ferdinand felt when he chose to sit quietly under the cork tree instead of fighting like the other bulls?
Why is it important that Ferdinand stayed true to his nature?
What does this story teach us about how we should treat others who are different from us?
Can you think of a time when you were happiest doing something you love?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story and relate them to their own experiences.
Highlight the value of peace and individuality, as shown by Ferdinand's choices.
Discuss the different behaviors of characters in the book and ask your child what they would do in similar situations.
Use the Latin text as an opportunity to explore a new language together, guessing the meanings of words and phrases.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Acceptance of non-conformity
Explanation: Ferdinandus Taurus, unlike other bulls who prefer fighting, loves sitting quietly and smelling flowers. This demonstrates that it's okay to have unique interests.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to pursue their own passions and accept others who might have different interests.
Example Lesson: Peacefulness over aggression
Explanation: The story emphasizes Ferdinandus' choice of peace over participating in bullfights, symbolizing the strength in choosing non-violence.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to resolve conflicts with words and kindness instead of resorting to physical fights.
Example Lesson: Importance of being true to oneself
Explanation: Ferdinandus remains true to his nature despite external pressures to behave aggressively, illustrating integrity.
Real-World Application: Children can understand the value of staying true to themselves, even when faced with peer pressure.
Example Lesson: Joy in simple pleasures
Explanation: Ferdinandus finds happiness in the simplicity of nature, which teaches contentment with simple, non-materialistic joys.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to find happiness in nature and the world around them, not just in possessions or achievements.
Example Lesson: Respecting individual differences
Explanation: The story portrays various bulls with different personalities and preferences, promoting diversity.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to respect and celebrate each person's unique traits and preferences in their community.