King of the Castle
What’s inside...
Ages 7 to 10 years. This book is about a man who spends every day in a school but who cannot read. Mr Elliot has a job he loves -- he is the custodian in a primary school. He is so useful to everyone that he sometimes sees himself as the king of the castle. But Mr Elliot has a secret. He can't read. When he sees a child at the school being called stupid and falling into traps he remembers so well himself, Mr Elliot finally decides he must learn how to read. His granddaughter proves to be his perfect audience. Black and white illustrations enhance this novel's appeal. "King of the Castle" is perfect both for encouraging children to read and for adult literacy programs.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it means to be the 'King of the Castle'? How did it make the characters feel?
Can you tell me about a time when you felt like you were in charge? How did it make you feel?
What are some ways the characters in the story could share the castle so everyone feels important?
How do you think the story would change if there was a Queen of the Castle instead?
What would you build if you had your own castle? Who would you invite to play?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voice tones and gestures while reading to make the story more vivid and engaging.
Pause after important moments in the story to ask your child how they feel about the characters’ decisions.
Relate the story to your child’s experiences by discussing similar situations they might have faced in school or with friends.
Encourage your child to draw their version of a castle or to act out parts of the book to deepen understanding of the story's themes.
After reading, ask your child to think about what rules they would make if they were the king or queen of their own castle.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'King of the Castle', the main character learns the importance of taking care of his belongings and duties to maintain happiness in the castle.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking care of their toys and completing household chores, understanding that their actions contribute to the well-being of their home.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The story emphasizes the value of working together as the characters in the castle must cooperate to organize a grand feast.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to collaborate with siblings and classmates in projects or games, highlighting that teamwork can achieve great results.
Example Lesson: Respect for Others
Explanation: Throughout the book, respect is shown as the cornerstone of interactions between the castle’s diverse inhabitants.
Real-World Application: Children learn to honor each person’s differences and treat everyone with kindness, mirroring respectful behaviors in their own social interactions.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The protagonist faces challenges in managing the castle and uses critical thinking to resolve conflicts.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to approach their own problems thoughtfully, using creativity and logic to find solutions.
Example Lesson: Leadership
Explanation: As the 'King of the Castle', the lead character demonstrates leadership by making decisions that ensure the castle runs smoothly.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to take initiative in leading group activities and making decisions that consider the best interest of all involved.