Tales Of O. Henry: Retold Timeless Classics (Cover-to-cover Books)
Timeless Classics (Hardcover) Series
What’s inside...
This collection of sixty-two retold tales by O. Henry, including favorites such as The Ransom of Red Chief, The Gift of the Magi, Jimmy Hayes and Muriel, and The Cop and the Anthem, provides readers with a delightful experience. The tales are drawn from a variety of O. Henry's works including The Four Million, Heart of the West, The Gentle Grafter, Roads of Destiny, Cabbages and Kings, Options, Sixes and Sevens, Rolling Stones, Whirligigs, The Voice of The City, The Trimmed Lamp, Strictly Business, and Waifs and Strays. This compilation offers young readers a glimpse at stories featuring unexpected twists and surprising endings.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-9
Length
565 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the main characters learned by the end of the story?
How would you have reacted in a similar situation as the characters?
Which story was your favorite and why?
What do you think about the choices the characters made? Would you have done anything differently?
How do you think the settings influenced the stories?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use the stories as a starting point to discuss the importance of making wise choices and the consequences of different actions.
Encourage your child to relate the stories to their own experiences, which can provide deeper understanding and personal connections.
Discuss the historical and cultural context of the stories to enhance comprehension and appreciation of the tales.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings for the stories, fostering creativity and critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: Through characters experiencing consequences of deceit, O. Henry's stories teach that honesty is the best policy.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value truthfulness in their daily interactions and understand that being honest builds trust.
Example Lesson: Value of hard work
Explanation: Characters who put effort into their tasks often achieve better outcomes, highlighting the benefits of diligence and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to apply themselves in schoolwork, chores, and personal goals, realizing that success is often earned through effort.
Example Lesson: Compassion towards others
Explanation: O. Henry often portrays characters showing kindness, which positively impacts others' lives, demonstrating the power of empathy.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of being considerate and helping others, fostering a more empathetic community mindset.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: Stories where characters face the repercussions of their choices instill an understanding that actions have consequences.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think about the potential outcomes before acting, helping them make more thoughtful decisions.