Imelda and the Goblin King
on Goodreads (250)
What’s inside...
Far away behind the hills, a girl named Imelda lives beside a fairy forest. Every day, she plays with her fairy friends in the forest. However, deep in the forest lives the Goblin King, the most feared creature. When he kidnaps the Fairy Queen, the fairies ask Imelda for help. Imelda devises a clever plan to transform the Goblin King into a worm, permanently ridding the forest of his terror. This story, filled with creativity and beautiful illustrations, marks the emergence of a promising new talent.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Imelda felt when she met the Goblin King?
How did Imelda show bravery in the story?
Why is it important to stand up for what is right, like Imelda did?
What would you have done if you were in Imelda's place?
How do you think the story would change if there was no Goblin King?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive tones and voices for different characters to make the story come alive for your child.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next in the story and discuss the outcome together.
Relate the themes of courage and kindness to your child’s own experiences.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character, and discuss why they chose that particular one.
After reading, revisit the book’s illustrations with your child, pointing out details that might enhance the understanding of the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Imelda shows bravery when she confronts the Goblin King to save her friends and the forest.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stand up for themselves and others, even when they are scared or the challenge seems overwhelming.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Imelda works together with the creatures of the forest to rescue their friends from the Goblin King, showcasing teamwork.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages kids to value cooperative efforts and support their friends in achieving common goals.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The story is set in a vividly depicted forest, emphasizing a harmonious relationship between the characters and their environment.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of preserving natural habitats and respecting wildlife, which can foster environmentally responsible behaviors.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Imelda devises clever plans to outsmart the Goblin King, demonstrating critical thinking under pressure.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this to their daily challenges, learning to think critically and find creative solutions to problems.
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: Despite setbacks, Imelda persists in her mission, showing resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to keep trying and not be discouraged by failures, but rather learn from them and move forward.