Gorgeous Georgians and Vile Victorians
Horrible Histories Special Series
on Goodreads (189)
What’s inside...
History with twice the nasty bits. The Gorgeous Georgians tells you all about the people who lived in these riotous times - from lords and ladies with a personal hygiene problem to the starving and pitiful poor. The Vile Victorians gives you all the terrible truth about revolting events affecting everyone not so very long ago - from the vile Victorian queen herself, to some vicious Victorian villains. Read on for curious quizzes, rotten recipes, gruesome games and terrible tests ... for your teacher. History has never been so horrible.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-11
Length
256 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some differences between the way children lived during the Georgian and Victorian eras compared to today?
Which historical figure from the book did you find most interesting, and why?
How do the technological and societal changes mentioned in the book impact everyday life?
What are some lessons we can learn from the challenges people faced during these times?
How do you think you would have fared living in either the Georgian or Victorian era?
Tip: Role play these questions
To foster a deeper connection with the book’s content, consider comparing modern day events or technology with historical events described. Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the historical periods discussed, and ask how they might have reacted to the challenges of those times. Utilize the book’s humorous elements to keep the conversation light and engaging while discussing serious historical facts.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Historical Context
Explanation: The book offers insights into the lives of people during the Georgian and Victorian eras, highlighting the complexities and differences compared to modern life.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate history and its impact on the present, fostering a deeper understanding of societal changes and empathy for different historical periods.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: By exposing readers to the struggles and living conditions of people in these past eras, the book encourages feelings of empathy and compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by showing empathy towards classmates who might be different or facing challenges, promoting inclusiveness.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: The book presents historical facts in an engaging manner, prompting children to question and analyze the information.
Real-World Application: This can translate to children becoming more thoughtful and critical in their daily interactions and studies, enhancing their problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Importance of Resilience
Explanation: Through tales of survival and adaptation during tough times in the Georgian and Victorian periods, the book portrays the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can mirror this resilience in facing their own modern-day challenges, whether in academics, sports, or personal growth.