James and the Giant Peach : A Childrens Story
Roald Dahl Series
What’s inside...
James and the Giant Peach is a popular children's novel written by Roald Dahl. It tells the story of James Henry Trotter, an orphaned boy who lives with his cruel aunts in the English countryside. James's life changes when he receives magical crocodile tongues, which cause a peach to grow to the size of a house. Inside the peach, he meets anthropomorphic insects and together they embark on a fantastical adventure across the ocean to New York City. Facing various challenges along the way, they ultimately arrive and are celebrated as heroes. James finds happiness and freedom in his new life, surrounded by his insect friends.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-9
Length
146 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think James felt when he first discovered the giant peach?
What do you think the different insects in the peach represent or symbolize?
How did the characters work together to overcome challenges?
If you were on an adventure with James and his friends, what role would you play?
What lessons can we learn about friendship and bravery from James’s journey?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story and ask them what they would do in similar situations.
Discuss the concept of teamwork by pointing out how each character’s unique abilities helped during their journey.
Highlight moments of bravery and kindness in the story and relate them to real life situations the child might encounter.
Use the story’s whimsical elements to foster creativity, asking your child to draw or describe their own imaginary world.
Share your own thoughts about the story’s themes to model thoughtful reflection and encourage deeper conversation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: James demonstrates courage as he embarks on an adventure with the giant peach, facing and overcoming various challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and challenges with bravery, understanding that courage is not the absence of fear but the strength to confront it.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: James forms friendships with the inhabitants of the giant peach, and they work together to navigate through difficulties.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of collaboration and how building strong relationships can help overcome obstacles.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: The surreal adventures in 'James and the Giant Peach' encourage a rich imagination, as James explores fantastical scenarios.
Real-World Application: Children learn to use their imagination to solve problems and think outside the box, skills that are vital in creative thinking and innovation.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Despite his initial hardships, James's journey is a testament to his resilience, as he learns to thrive in his new circumstances.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to remain steadfast in difficult times, teaching them that perseverance is key to overcoming adversity.