Giant
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
A new edition of this witty but thought-provoking picture book by bestselling author and illustrator Colin McNaughton. Deep in the rainforest, a huge giant meets a small boy and tells him an amazing story: a tale of friendly giants, terrible ogres, and the most dangerous creatures of all: the giant-killers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the giant felt when he couldn't fit in with the rest of the town?
What are some ways the townspeople could have helped the giant feel more welcome?
Can you think of a time when you felt different from others? What helped you feel better?
What does this story teach us about friendship and kindness?
How might the story have ended differently if the giant and the townspeople never became friends?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book by relating the giant’s experiences to their own. Foster empathy by discussing the emotions of different characters and how each character’s actions affect others. Highlight the importance of inclusivity and kindness, and ask your child how they can apply these lessons in their own interactions at school or with friends. Wrap up your discussion by reflecting on the positive outcomes of understanding and accepting others' differences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and facing fears
Explanation: In 'Giant,' the protagonist confronts a seemingly frightening giant only to discover that the giant is friendly. This pivotal moment illustrates the importance of facing fears rather than avoiding them.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to confront their own fears, whether it’s speaking in front of a class, trying a new activity, or making new friends, understanding that often, fears are less daunting once confronted.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The story showcases the protagonist’s journey to understanding the giant, illustrating that initial appearances can be deceiving and that empathy is crucial.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to look beyond first impressions and practice empathy with their peers, promoting a more inclusive and understanding environment.
Example Lesson: Friendship and its impacts
Explanation: As the protagonist and the giant become friends, the story highlights how friendships can cross traditional boundaries and the positive changes these relationships can bring.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of building friendships with those who might seem different, discovering common ground and mutual respect.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters encounter various challenges that require creative solutions, teaching children the importance of thinking critically and solving problems.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child's everyday life through resolving conflicts with friends or figuring out how to approach a difficult task at school.