Jack the Giant Killer (Everyman's Library Children's Classics Series)
Everyman'S Library Children'S Classics Series
What’s inside...
The story of Jack, the intrepid boy whose courage and ingenuity defeated a host of many-headed giants, has been told to children for hundreds of years. In 1842, Richard Doyle, a talented young artist with a passion for legend and the grotesque, created a picture-book version of Jack the Giant Killer, featuring hand-written text and vivid watercolor illustrations within pictorial borders on every page. This beloved version has been enhanced in a new Everyman's edition, with enlarged illustrations and more legible text, combining the appeal of Victorian illustration with elements that satisfy both a child's love for magic and a collector's appreciation for classic art.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Jack
Discussion points
What do you think Jack felt when he decided to confront the giants?
How do you think the story would change if Jack had made friends with the giants instead?
What lessons can we learn from Jack's bravery and cleverness?
Can you think of a time when you had to be brave like Jack?
What would you do if you were in Jack's place?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Jack's world, asking them how they would feel and react in similar situations. Discuss the moral lessons that can be learned from Jack's adventures and decisions. Use expressive reading to bring the scenes to life, and ask your child to guess what might happen next to build anticipation and engagement.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: Jack's numerous encounters with giants throughout the story showcase his bravery and resolve, despite the odds being stacked against him.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their fears and stand up for themselves or others in challenging situations, whether it’s dealing with bullying or trying something new.
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness and Ingenuity
Explanation: Jack often uses his wits to outsmart the giants, rather than relying solely on physical strength.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of thinking creatively to solve problems, whether in their academic pursuits or in everyday challenges.
Example Lesson: The value of Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout his adventures, Jack encounters setbacks but his determination never wavers, showing that persistence pays off.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to keep trying in the face of difficulties, be it learning a new skill or improving in a sport.
Example Lesson: Justice and Fairness
Explanation: Jack fights against the giants who terrorize the kingdom, representing the fight for justice against wrongdoers.
Real-World Application: This illustrates to children the importance of standing up for what is right and protecting others from unfair treatment.
Example Lesson: Humility
Explanation: Despite his victories, Jack remains humble and does not boast about his accomplishments.
Real-World Application: It teaches children the value of humility and to celebrate their achievements without belittling others.