Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Rip Van Winkle (Calico Illustrated Classics Set 2)
Calico Illustrated Classics Series
What’s inside...
Two of Washington Irving's classic short stories, 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow' and 'Rip Van Winkle', have been adapted for young readers in the Calico Illustrated Classics series. In 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow', Ichabod Crane is captivated by the ghost stories of Sleepy Hollow, only to find himself at the center of one. In 'Rip Van Winkle', Rip's mysterious disappearance is discussed for twenty years in his village, though for Rip, it only felt like one night. These adaptations bring to life the mysteries of old Dutch settlements for a new generation.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-8
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes the town of Sleepy Hollow so mysterious?
If you were Rip Van Winkle, what would you do after waking up from a long sleep?
How do the characters' choices affect their outcomes in each story?
Why do you think the authors chose to set these stories in the places they did?
What lessons can we learn about fear and consequences from these tales?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine the setting of Sleepy Hollow and describe it in their own words.
Discuss with your child what they would do differently if they were in Rip Van Winkle’s shoes.
Compare and contrast the protagonists of both stories with your child, discussing their traits and decisions.
After reading, ask your child to draw their favorite scene and explain why it stood out to them.
Use examples from the stories to talk about the importance of understanding the consequences of one's actions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of community engagement
Explanation: In 'Rip Van Winkle,' Rip's disengagement from his community and his long sleep result in him missing out on significant social changes, including the American Revolution.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to participate and stay engaged in their communities, helping them understand the impact of societal events and fostering a sense of belonging.
Example Lesson: Consequences of avoiding responsibilities
Explanation: Rip Van Winkle’s avoidance of responsibilities and preference for idleness leads to personal and familial hardships, showing the negative outcomes of shirking responsibilities.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of responsibility and the importance of fulfilling duties, whether it's homework, chores, or commitments to friends.
Example Lesson: Facing fears and the unknown
Explanation: In 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,' Ichabod Crane confronts the eerie and supernatural elements of the Sleepy Hollow, symbolizing the confrontation with one's fears.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to face their fears and uncertainties, teaching them resilience and the ability to handle unfamiliar situations.
Example Lesson: Impact of superstitions on human behavior
Explanation: Ichabod's actions and fears are heavily influenced by local superstitions, which dictate much of the social dynamics in Sleepy Hollow.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand how myths and superstitions can influence behavior and decision-making, emphasizing critical thinking and questioning of unfounded beliefs.
Example Lesson: Resilience through change
Explanation: After waking from his long sleep, Rip Van Winkle adapts to a new American society, showing resilience in the face of drastic changes.
Real-World Application: Illustrates to children the importance of adaptability and resilience when encountering changes in life, such as moving to a new place or adjusting to a new school environment.