LillyBelle: A Damsel NOT in Distress
What’s inside...
When faced with the danger of giants, ogres, and witches, other damsels might quake with fear . . . but not LillyBelle! At the School for Damsels, LillyBelle enjoys many damsel-in-training classes, like cake baking and vocal training, but the rule that a damsel must be in distress . . . not so much. When she's captured by one villain after another, LillyBelle will need to use her charm and her wit to save herself and prove once and for all that damsels don't have to be in distress--all in time for tea!
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Lillybelle
Discussion points
What do you think makes LillyBelle brave? Can you think of a time when you were brave like her?
LillyBelle is unique and enjoys different activities. What are some things you like to do that make you feel special?
How do LillyBelle's friends help her in the story? Why is it important to have good friends?
What would you do if you were in LillyBelle’s situation? Would you make the same choices she did?
How do you think the story would change if LillyBelle decided she needed to be rescued?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their own experiences with LillyBelle’s, fostering empathy and understanding of the character.
Use the illustrations in the book to ask your child to describe what they see and how it adds to the story. This can enhance their observation and storytelling skills.
Discuss the different characters with your child and ask them what they like or don’t like about each one. This helps them articulate opinions and preferences.
After reading, ask your child to imagine an extra scene or a new ending to the story. This encourages creativity and deeper engagement with the text.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-reliance
Explanation: LillyBelle actively participates in activities typically deemed for knights, demonstrating that she can handle challenges independently.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to try new tasks on their own and believe in their capability to overcome obstacles without always seeking adult intervention.
Example Lesson: Equality
Explanation: LillyBelle challenges gender roles by being a knight, showing that both girls and boys can engage in the same activities and roles.
Real-World Application: Promotes inclusivity by encouraging children to allow their peers to participate in all games and activities, regardless of gender.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout her adventures, LillyBelle uses her wit and intelligence to navigate through various challenges, rather than relying on brute strength.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to use creative thinking and reasoning to solve problems they encounter in daily life, be that in play or schoolwork.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: LillyBelle displays bravery, not only in her physical adventures but also in breaking societal norms and stereotypes.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the value of facing fears and standing up for what they believe in, whether it's trying new activities or defending their opinions.
Example Lesson: Independence
Explanation: LillyBelle's journey in the book is largely a solitary one, where she relies on her skills and judgment.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be self-sufficient and make decisions by themselves, fostering a sense of independence and self-confidence.