The Emperor of Absurdia
Let's Read Series
on Goodreads (467)
What’s inside...
Put on your jingle-jangle socks, and prepare for adventure, with a picture book from the Edge Chronicles' Chris Riddell. Welcome to a strange and wonderful land where nothing is quite what it seems. Trees are birds, umbrellas are trees, and the sky is thick with snoring fish. Join one small boy as he tumbles out of bed into a crazy dreamland of wardrobe monsters, dragons, and amazing adventure. This gloriously rich and beautiful picture book comes from a uniquely talented artist at the height of his powers. With a story to enchant the youngest reader, and pictures to gasp and pore over whatever your age, it is an extraordinary achievement and one to savor.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The Emperor
Discussion points
What do you think the Emperor of Absurdia would do if he visited our world?
Why do you think the umbrella tree was so important in the story?
How would you feel if you woke up in a world like Absurdia?
Can you think of a new absurd rule to add to the Emperor's kingdom?
What was your favorite part of the adventure and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to use their imagination by asking them to draw their version of Absurdia.
Act out different scenes from the book together to make the reading experience more interactive and fun.
Discuss the illustrations and ask what they notice about the colors, shapes, and characters, fostering attention to detail.
Relate the absurd elements of the story to everyday situations to help your child find humor in their surroundings.
After reading, ask your child to summarize the story to boost their comprehension and recall abilities.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Creativity
Explanation: The Emperor of Absurdia showcases a whimsical world where creativity and imagination run free. Children witness how the protagonist navigates a realm of wonderful absurdities.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to use their imagination in play and problem-solving, enhancing cognitive flexibility and creative thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the Emperor encounters various challenges that he must overcome, such as finding his lost snuggly scarf. These scenarios demonstrate critical thinking and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children learn to approach real-life challenges with a problem-solving mindset, developing resilience and the ability to think critically when faced with obstacles.
Example Lesson: Exploration and Curiosity
Explanation: The young Emperor's adventures in the surreal landscape of Absurdia inspire a sense of exploration and curiosity about the world around him.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore and inquire about their environments, fostering a lifelong love of learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: Joy in Simple Pleasures
Explanation: The Emperor finds joy in simple activities and the beauty of his bizarre surroundings, teaching the value of appreciating the little things in life.
Real-World Application: Children learn to find happiness in everyday moments and to appreciate the world around them, which is essential for emotional well-being and contentment.