Moby Dick: Accessible Symbolised Edition
Accessible Classics Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
An accessible version of the classic novel 'Moby Dick' by Herman Melville, adapted with symbol support to aid comprehension for young readers. This edition follows the thrilling adventures of Ishmael, the narrator, who joins the whale hunt led by the monomaniacal Captain Ahab to seek the elusive white whale, Moby Dick.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Ishmael
Fedallah
Daggoo
Tashtego
Flask
Stubb
Starbuck
Queequeg
Captain Ahab
Discussion points
What do you think Captain Ahab feels about the white whale? Why does he feel that way?
How do the sailors on the ship react to the challenges they face? What can we learn from their reactions?
What role does friendship play in this story? Can you point out any moments where friendship made a difference?
How does the environment of the sea impact the story? What descriptions of the sea did you find interesting or exciting?
What do you think is the main message of 'Moby Dick'? How does it relate to our everyday lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story, discussing how they would feel or react in similar situations. Use examples from the book to highlight themes of perseverance, understanding, and respect for nature. Draw parallels between the challenges faced by the characters and those we encounter in daily life, emphasizing learning and growth from experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of challenges
Explanation: Captain Ahab’s relentless pursuit of the white whale symbolizes the human spirit's determination against seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persistence and determination in achieving their goals, regardless of the difficulties they encounter.
Example Lesson: Respecting nature’s power
Explanation: The mighty and unpredictable white whale represents the formidable force of nature, teaching respect for the natural world and its creatures.
Real-World Application: This instills in children a respect for the environment and an understanding of the importance of coexisting harmoniously with nature.
Example Lesson: The consequences of obsession
Explanation: Ahab’s obsessive quest leads to devastation, showing the destructive consequences of letting obsession drive one's actions.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of balance and the dangers of allowing a single pursuit to consume all aspects of one's life.
Example Lesson: The value of camaraderie and diverse perspectives
Explanation: The diverse crew aboard the Pequod highlights the strength found in teamwork and listening to various viewpoints.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to appreciate diversity, foster teamwork, and value the opinions of others in collaborative settings.