The Fairy Song (Traditional Scottish Tales)
Picture Kelpies: Traditional Scottish Tales Series
What’s inside...
Rose lives with her parents in a small cottage in the forest. Her family are poor and hardworking, and Rose yearns for fun, friendship and flowers. One Midsummer's Day, walking wearily home, Rose hears beautiful singing and follows the joyful sound deep into the trees. As she listens, a flurry of fairies bursts out of a tiny door in the side of a hill! One of the fairies invites Rose to join their party. Entering the fairy world, Rose is enchanted with her new friends and gladly joins in with their Midsummer song. Will she ever want to leave? Inspired by traditional Scottish stories of fairy folk, celebrated storyteller Janis Mackay weaves a magical tale that will capture any child's imagination. Ruchi Mhasane's delightful illustrations sparkle with joy and vitality. The Fairy Song is a delightful new book from the creators of much-loved traditional Scottish tale The Selkie Girl.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
192 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the fairy song sounds like? Can you imagine it in your head or hum a tune that you think fits?
How do you think the characters in the story felt when they encountered something magical or unexpected?
What lesson can we learn from how the characters in the story reacted to challenges?
If you were to meet a character from the story, what would you ask them and why?
Which part of the story was your favorite and what made it so special to you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story by asking them to draw a scene or a character they liked.
Use expressive reading techniques, changing your tone and volume to match the mood of different parts of the story, to make the tale come alive for your child.
After reading, ask your child to retell the story in their own words, helping them focus on main events and characters.
Connect the story to real-life experiences by discussing times when your child felt similarly to the characters in the book.
Encourage empathy by asking how they would feel in the characters' situations, and exploring different ways the characters could solve their problems.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness
Explanation: In 'The Fairy Song', the characters often engage in acts of kindness, helping both friends and strangers alike throughout the story.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to extend kindness to their peers and family members, fostering a supportive and caring environment.
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: Characters in the book face various challenges but persist until they overcome them, teaching resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to keep trying in the face of difficulties, whether in schoolwork, sports, or personal goals.
Example Lesson: The significance of cultural heritage
Explanation: Rooted in Scottish traditions, the book introduces young readers to cultural stories and folklore, enriching their understanding of different backgrounds.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and explore diverse cultures, promoting inclusivity and curiosity about the world’s varied traditions.
Example Lesson: The power of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the tale, characters work together to solve problems, emphasizing cooperative efforts and mutual support.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to collaborate effectively with others in school projects and team activities, understanding that combined efforts often lead to success.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The story’s setting in the Scottish highlands, coupled with its magical elements, fosters a deep appreciation for natural environments and their preservation.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to engage in activities that protect and respect their natural surroundings, such as recycling, conserving water, or planting trees.