Grandpa's Great Escape
What’s inside...
'Grandpa's Great Escape' is a heartwarming adventure story by David Walliams, set in the 1980s. It revolves around a loving relationship between a boy named Jack and his Grandpa, who was a World War II flying ace but now suffers from Alzheimer’s disease. Grandpa's confusion about the present leads him to believe he is still in the war. When Grandpa is sent to Twilight Towers, a sinister old folks' home run by the cruel Miss Swine, Jack realizes that the place is not what it seems. Concerned for his Grandpa’s well-being, Jack concocts a daring plan to break him out. The plan involves a nostalgic, yet adventurous escape that sees them embark on one final grand mission that rekindles Grandpa's spirit and showcases the unbreakable bond between a boy and his grandfather. The book is filled with humor, emotion, and action, capturing the essence of adventure and the importance of family.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
464 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made Grandpa want to escape? How did he feel about his adventures?
How do the different characters in the story show their love or care for Grandpa?
If you were Jack, how would you help Grandpa with his great escape plan?
What does this story teach us about the relationship between grandparents and grandchildren?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in today's world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters to life, changing your voice for Grandpa and Jack to enhance the storytelling experience.
After reading a chapter, pause and ask your child to predict what might happen next, fostering their imagination and anticipation.
Discuss the historical context of the book, explaining any unfamiliar terms or concepts to deepen their understanding of the story's setting.
Encourage your child to talk about their own relationship with their grandparents or elderly family members, connecting the story to their personal experiences.
End your reading sessions by asking your child what they learned from the story that day, reinforcing the themes and moral lessons of the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy and understanding
Explanation: In 'Grandpa's Great Escape,' the young protagonist, Jack, displays deep empathy and understanding towards his grandfather, who is confused and believes he is still in World War II. Jack's actions in helping his grandfather and navigating difficult situations highlight the value of understanding others' experiences and emotions.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more considerate and understanding towards seniors or individuals who might be experiencing difficulties due to age or health conditions. This can foster more compassionate interactions in their daily lives, especially with elderly family members.
Example Lesson: Courage to stand up for what is right
Explanation: Jack shows immense courage by standing up against the mistreatment and improper care his grandfather receives at Twilight Towers, the nursing home. He takes bold steps to protect his grandfather, showcasing bravery and integrity.
Real-World Application: This lesson can empower children to speak out against injustices or wrongdoings they witness in their surroundings, be it at school or within their community, reinforcing the importance of advocacy and ethical behavior.
Example Lesson: The significance of intergenerational relationships
Explanation: The bond between Jack and his grandfather is central to the story, illustrating the mutual joy and learning that can occur in intergenerational relationships. Through adventures and shared moments, both characters grow and learn from each other.
Real-World Application: Encouraging children to spend time and engage with older generations can enrich their lives, providing them with wisdom, stories, and experiences that they cannot get elsewhere. This can lead to stronger family bonds and a better understanding of their family history and values.
Example Lesson: Creativity and problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, Jack and his grandfather use their creativity and wit to navigate various challenges, including escaping from Twilight Towers. Their inventive strategies demonstrate the power of creative thinking and problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to think out of the box and use their imagination to solve problems, whether in their academic tasks or personal challenges. Fostering creativity can also aid in developing flexible thinking and resilience.
Example Lesson: Importance of adventure and exploration
Explanation: The adventures that Jack and his grandfather embark on throughout 'Grandpa's Great Escape' spark a sense of excitement and curiosity about the world. These experiences are portrayed as enriching and transformative.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to explore new activities, learn about different places, and engage in adventurous pursuits. This can lead to a more active lifestyle and an enthusiastic approach to learning and discovery.