The Devil & Mother Crump
on Goodreads (18)
What’s inside...
The Devil meets his match in a feisty old baker woman who tricks him into granting her three very strange wishes.
Age
7-9
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made Mother Crump feel so angry, and how would you try to help someone who feels that way?
Why do you think the Devil decided to visit Mother Crump? What do you think he learned from her?
How did the villagers react to Mother Crump's behavior? How would you react if someone in your community was behaving like her?
What are some ways Mother Crump could have solved her problems without being mean?
If you were in the story, what would you say to Mother Crump and the Devil?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation with a gentle tone to set a comfortable space for sharing thoughts. Use follow-up questions like 'Can you tell me more about that?' to dive deeper into your child's perspective. Share your own interpretations of the story’s lessons to model thoughtful reflection. Connect the themes of the book to real-life situations your child may encounter to help them apply the lessons. Praise your child’s thoughts and insights to boost their confidence in expressing opinions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness and compassion
Explanation: The story demonstrates this lesson through the character of Mother Crump who, despite being portrayed initially as unkind, shows deep compassion and understanding towards the misunderstood Devil.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to look beyond initial impressions and show empathy and kindness towards others, promoting a more inclusive and supportive community.
Example Lesson: The value of redemption and forgiveness
Explanation: The Devil in the story changes his ways due to the positive influence and kindness shown by Mother Crump, highlighting the theme of redemption.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that people can change for the better and stresses the importance of offering forgiveness and support to those who seek to improve themselves.
Example Lesson: The power of personal responsibility
Explanation: Mother Crump encourages the Devil to take responsibility for his past actions, leading to his transformation and positive contribution to the world.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of taking responsibility for their actions and how it can lead to personal growth and better relationships.
Example Lesson: The strength found in unlikely friendships
Explanation: The bond that forms between Mother Crump and the Devil shows that friendships can form between the most unlikely characters and that these relationships can be transformative.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be open to forming friendships outside their usual social circle, enriching their lives and perspectives.