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What’s inside...
Before Shrek made it big on the silver screen, there was William Steig's SHREK!, a book about an ordinary ogre who leaves his swampy childhood home to go out and see the world. Ordinary, that is, if a foul and hideous being who ends up marrying the most stunningly ugly princess on the planet is what you consider ordinary.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-4
Length
1 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Shrek's appearance influence the way others treated him? How did he feel about it?
What do you think is the most important lesson Shrek learned on his adventure?
How do the different characters in the story show bravery or kindness?
Why do you think the author chose an ogre as the main character?
What would you do if you met someone like Shrek?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage open conversation by asking your child to reflect on how they would feel in Shrek’s shoes, emphasizing empathy and understanding.
Discuss the importance of accepting and celebrating differences, relating it to real-life situations your child might encounter.
Highlight moments of kindness and bravery in the story and ask your child to share when they’ve seen or shown similar qualities.
After reading, engage in a fun activity like drawing your favorite scene or character to reinforce the themes discussed.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The book illustrates empathy through the character's interactions where they learn to understand and share the feelings of others.
Real-World Application: Children can utilize this lesson by acknowledging their friends' feelings and offering comfort or help during difficult times.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: The protagonist faces challenges bravely and overcomes fears, demonstrating courage throughout the narrative.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to face their own fears and challenges at school or in social settings with bravery.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: The story highlights building and maintaining friendships despite differences, showing how characters value and support each other.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by being good friends in their own lives, valuing diversity and supporting their peers.
Example Lesson: Honesty
Explanation: Characters in the book learn the importance of being truthful, even when it is difficult, which ultimately benefits everyone involved.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the value of honesty in their daily interactions and build trust with others.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The book portrays characters persisting through difficulties, emphasizing the theme of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to keep trying and not give up on their tasks or goals, whether it's in completing homework, sports, or other activities.