Rumpelstiltskin
Favourite tales Series
What’s inside...
Introducing ten new phonic fairy-tale books designed to develop the reading confidence of young children. The books are aimed at children who can read a little, but who need lively but structured books to help them develop their skills further, focusing particularly on phonics. Using a familiar tale, the entertaining, rhyming text complements the child's more formal learning. A page at the beginning of each book helps adults to understand how best to use the book with the child. At the end of each book, there are fun activities to reinforce the key phonic sounds from the book. Clare Fennel's charming illustrations will engage and entertain children as they read.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the miller told the king that his daughter could spin straw into gold?
What would you have done if you were in the girl's place when Rumpelstiltskin asked for something in return for his help?
How did Rumpelstiltskin feel when his name was discovered, and why do you think he reacted that way?
What is the importance of a name? How does knowing someone's true name change the way we think about them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they think the characters felt during key moments in the story.
Highlight the moral of the story and discuss its relevance to everyday life, emphasizing honesty and the consequences of deceit.
Facilitate predictions by pausing during pivotal moments and asking your child what they think might happen next and why.
Promote critical thinking by discussing the choices of the characters and exploring alternative outcomes.
Use expressive reading to enhance engagement, changing your tone and volume to match the narrative, making the story come alive for your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: In 'Rumpelstiltskin', the miller's daughter is forced to make a difficult decision when she promises Rumpelstiltskin her firstborn child in exchange for spinning straw into gold. The story highlights the consequences of her initial dishonesty about her abilities and the ultimate resolution to honor her promise.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of being truthful and the potential consequences of deceit. They are encouraged to be honest in their dealings to build trust and integrity.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: The protagonist faces an impossible task set by the king but manages to overcome it with help and clever thinking. This shows her resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that they can overcome difficulties with perseverance and possibly seeking help from trusted individuals, fostering problem-solving skills and determination.
Example Lesson: The power of names and words
Explanation: The climax revolves around the discovery of Rumpelstiltskin’s name, illustrating the power and significance of names and words in the story.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of language and communication, and how knowledge can be a powerful tool in resolving conflicts and gaining understanding.
Example Lesson: Being cautious in making agreements
Explanation: The miller's daughter hastily agrees to Rumpelstiltskin's terms without fully considering the consequences, which almost leads to losing her child.
Real-World Application: This lesson warns of the importance of understanding and thinking carefully before entering into agreements or making promises, particularly about the consequences that may follow.