The Book of Mythical Beasts and Magical Creatures (Mysteries, Magic and Myth)
Mysteries, Magic and Myth Series
What’s inside...
Explore the enchanting world of mythical creatures in this comprehensive guide by DK. Discover the captivating origins, histories, and cultural significance of various legendary beings, including unicorns, dragons, and ogres, from diverse global mythologies and folklore. This book is rich with colorful illustrations and engaging descriptions that capture the imagination of readers of all ages. Learn about societies that spawned these creatures, from Ancient Greece to indigenous tribes of Australia, and get insights into their creation stories. With contributions from illustrator Pham Quang Phuc, 'Mythical Beasts and Magical Creatures' is perfect for children aged 5-9 who are fans of fantasy tales, offering a deep dive into the history behind the myths and exploring the magical world in an engaging and educational way.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-10
Length
160 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What magical creature intrigued you the most and why?
If you could have a mythical beast as a companion, which one would you choose and what adventures would you go on?
How do you think the behaviors of these mythical creatures compare to real animals we see today?
In what ways do you think the magical creatures in the book teach us about bravery and friendship?
How would you use magic to solve a problem you're facing?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child's imagination by asking them to draw or describe their own mythical creature. Discuss the moral lessons or values each creature in the book might represent, linking them to everyday life scenarios your child might encounter. Use the stories as a starting point to explore different cultures' myths and legends, fostering an appreciation for diversity and history.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding diversity and acceptance
Explanation: The book showcases various mythical beasts and magical creatures from diverse cultures around the world, teaching children about the richness of global folklore and traditions.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect cultural differences in their everyday interactions, promoting inclusivity and empathy.
Example Lesson: The importance of courage and bravery
Explanation: Many stories in the book feature characters who face fearsome creatures or daunting challenges, exemplifying bravery.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their own fears and challenges with courage, whether it’s trying new activities, standing up for themselves, or dealing with difficult situations at school.
Example Lesson: The power of curiosity and knowledge
Explanation: The protagonists often overcome obstacles through knowledge and learning about the creatures they encounter.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to seek knowledge and ask questions about the world around them, enhancing their educational journey and critical thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Values of kindness and compassion
Explanation: Characters often succeed by showing kindness to others, including magical creatures, which sometimes reciprocate the goodwill.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being kind and helping others, which can improve their social interactions and foster positive relationships.
Example Lesson: The significance of storytelling and imagination
Explanation: The book itself is a testament to the power of stories in transporting readers to fantastical worlds, sparking imagination.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to create and share their own stories, boosting their creativity and expressive abilities.