The Great Fire of London (Beginning History)
on Goodreads (23)
What’s inside...
This big book combines good quality artwork and contemporary illustrations with simple, well-written text. Young readers will discover how the fire started, what devastation it caused and will be able to compare fire-fighting in 1666 to the present day.Photos of artefacts and original illustrations help bring the topic to life.
Why read this book
- Engagingly introduces historical events to young readers.
- Illustrations complement text, enhancing understanding and interest.
- Encourages curiosity about history and past events.
- Supports development of literacy and comprehension skills.
Discussion points
What do you think it was like to live in London during the Great Fire?
Why do you think the fire spread so quickly and was so hard to put out?
How did the people of London feel and react during the Great Fire?
What changes do you think were made after the fire to prevent such a disaster from happening again?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the historical context of the book, making personal connections with the events described. Use the book's illustrations to help them visualize the story. Discuss the importance of community and teamwork in facing challenges, and finally, connect the story to modern safety measures and emergency responses to help them understand progress and resilience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of community help
Explanation: The book illustrates how people in London came together to help each other during the crisis of the Great Fire.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of supporting those around them and working together in times of need, fostering a sense of community and cooperation.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical events
Explanation: Through vivid storytelling, the book provides a detailed account of the events during the Great Fire of London, helping children to understand a significant historical incident.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take an interest in history and learn from past events, which can help them understand the present and influence their future decisions.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving in crisis situations
Explanation: The narrative showcases how leaders and citizens made quick decisions to stop the fire from spreading further.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of critical thinking and making swift decisions during emergencies, enhancing their problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: The impact of human activities on the environment
Explanation: The story touches on how the wooden construction of most London buildings contributed to the fire’s spread.
Real-World Application: This can encourage discussions about the materials we use in our environments and promote more sustainable choices.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of disaster
Explanation: The book depicts the aftermath of the fire and how the city began to rebuild itself, highlighting the resilience of its people.
Real-World Application: It teaches children about the strength of human spirit and the importance of rebuilding and moving forward after setbacks.