What’s inside...
Among the crew is Ishmael, the novel's narrator, ordinary sailor, and extraordinary reader. Digressive, allusive, vulgar, transcendent, the story Ishmael tells is above all an education: in the practice of whaling, in the art of writing. Expanding to equal his 'mighty theme' - not only the whale but all things sublime - Melville breathes in the world's great literature. Moby Dick is the greatest novel ever written by an American. La Bruja Aburrida has decided to send the twins into the story of Moby Dick. The girls will travel hidden on Captain Ahab's ship, who wants to capture the whale in revenge for having left him crippled when, a long time ago, he tried to hunt it. The twins must find Moby Dick before Ahab, to warn the whale of the danger it faces.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Captain Ahab feels about the white whale, Moby Dick? Why does he feel that way?
How do the different characters in the story react to the challenges they face at sea?
What can we learn from Ishmael's observations and experiences throughout the voyage?
How does the crew's relationship change as the story progresses? What causes these changes?
What do you think is the main message of 'Moby Dick', and how can we apply it to our daily lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the characters' decisions and actions, fostering empathy and ethical reasoning.
Discuss the concept of obsession and perseverance shown in the book, asking your child how these traits can lead to both positive and negative outcomes.
Explore the historical and nautical aspects of 'Moby Dick' together, enriching the reading experience with additional learning contexts.
Emphasize the aspects of teamwork and leadership displayed in the book, prompting a discussion on their importance in achieving common goals.
Relate themes of the book to current events or personal experiences to make the discussion more relevant and engaging for your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of adversity
Explanation: The relentless pursuit of the whale by Captain Ahab demonstrates the theme of perseverance. Despite numerous challenges, Ahab remains determined.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of persistence and not giving up when facing their own challenges, whether in school or in personal endeavors.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The majesty of the whale and the ocean in 'Moby Dick' highlights the importance of respecting and protecting our natural environment.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be more conscious of their environment, promoting activities like recycling, conserving water, and appreciating wildlife.
Example Lesson: Consequences of obsession
Explanation: Captain Ahab’s obsessive quest leads to dire consequences for him and his crew, illustrating the dangers of letting obsession overpower reason.
Real-World Application: Children can learn about the importance of balance and the risks of becoming too fixated on one goal or object.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The crew on the Pequod must work together to sail the ship and hunt the whale, showing the necessity of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child’s life through participating in team sports, group projects, and family activities that require cooperation and mutual respect.
Example Lesson: Learning from diverse perspectives
Explanation: The diverse crew of the Pequod includes individuals from various cultural backgrounds, demonstrating the value of multiple perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to be open-minded and learn from people who are different from themselves, enhancing social skills and cultural awareness.