Hansel and Greta: A Fairy Tale Revolution
Fairy Tales Revolution Series
What’s inside...
In 'Hansel and Greta: A Fairy Tale Revolution,' author Jeanette Winterson reimagines the classic tale with a modern twist, emphasizing themes of empowerment and change. The story follows siblings Hansel and Greta as they navigate challenges, advocating for bravery and smart thinking in facing adversity. This fresh take not only entertains but serves as a tool for discussing resilience and resourcefulness, making it a perfect addition to any young reader's library.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-5
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Hansel and Greta's adventure make you feel? What would you do if you were in their shoes?
What do you think about the choices Hansel and Greta made? Were there other options they could have explored?
How did the characters change from the beginning to the end of the story? What caused those changes?
What does 'courage' mean to you? How did Hansel and Greta show courage?
If you could change one part of the story, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story. Listen actively and validate their feelings.
Prompt your child to think critically about the characters' decisions and alternate endings by asking, 'What would you do differently?'
Discuss the moral lessons in the story and relate them to real-life situations your child might encounter.
Use the story as a springboard to explore themes of bravery and resilience. Share personal experiences where you had to be brave.
Highlight moments in the story where characters showed empathy and discuss the importance of understanding others' feelings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empowerment and Self-Reliance
Explanation: In 'Hansel and Greta: A Fairy Tale Revolution', the protagonists take charge of their fate and work together to overcome obstacles. This demonstrates personal agency and resourcefulness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take initiative in solving their problems and feel confident in their ability to make decisions.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: Hansel and Greta rely on each other’s strengths to navigate their challenges. Their successful collaboration highlights the value of working together.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by collaborating with peers in school projects or in sports, appreciating each other's strengths to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters encounter various challenges that require them to think critically and devise clever solutions.
Real-World Application: Children can use critical thinking in daily life to assess situations, weigh options, and make informed decisions. This can be encouraged through games that require strategic planning.
Example Lesson: Coping with Adversity
Explanation: The siblings face numerous setbacks but adapt and persevere, illustrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn that setbacks are part of life and that they can overcome difficulties with determination and adaptability, important skills in both academic and personal settings.
Example Lesson: Moral Integrity
Explanation: Despite various temptations, Hansel and Greta stay true to their moral convictions, highlighting the importance of integrity.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of maintaining ethical standards and honesty, even when faced with difficult choices.