King Arthur
Marc Brown Arthur Chapter Books (Pb) Series
What’s inside...
Ages 9 to 12 years. The stories have been retold in a lucid style and the language has been modernized for better understanding.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-14
Length
144 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What qualities make King Arthur a good leader? Can you think of a situation where you demonstrated similar qualities?
How do the Knights of the Round Table show teamwork? Have you worked in a team like that at school or with friends?
Why do you think honor and bravery are important themes in the story?
If you had a magical sword like Excalibur, what would you use it for?
How do you think the story would change if it took place in today’s world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences by asking them about times they have had to make difficult decisions or work with others.
Discuss the historical and mythical elements of the story. This can lead to a broader conversation about history and legends.
Focus on the moral lessons of the stories. Ask your child what they would do in King Arthur's place in various scenarios from the book.
Use creative prompts, like imagining what objects in today's world could be their 'Excalibur', to help them connect personally with the story.
Praise their insights and draw parallels to reinforce understanding of the book's themes and values.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and bravery
Explanation: King Arthur's journey from a young squire to a legendary monarch is marked by acts of daring and valor, especially notable in his ability to pull the sword from the stone.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of facing challenges with bravery and can apply this when dealing with new or intimidating situations, whether it’s standing up for a friend or trying out a new activity at school.
Example Lesson: Leadership and responsibility
Explanation: As King, Arthur demonstrates fair leadership and the weight of responsibility through his establishment of the Round Table where all voices are considered equal.
Real-World Application: This can translate to a child’s life by emphasizing the value of teamwork and making fair decisions when in group settings or collaborative tasks in school.
Example Lesson: The power of wisdom over force
Explanation: King Arthur frequently relies on wisdom and counsel from Merlin rather than brute strength to resolve conflicts.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of thoughtful decision-making and problem-solving, encouraging them to seek advice and think critically instead of resorting to aggression.
Example Lesson: The importance of justice
Explanation: Arthur’s rule is heavily based on the principles of justice and equality, striving to ensure a fair government.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of fairness and can practice being just and equitable in their interactions with peers, fostering a sense of integrity.