The Hole Book (Illustrated)
on Goodreads (133)
What’s inside...
Originally published in 1908, The Hole Book by Peter Newell is a classic children's story told in rhyme. The book follows Tom Potts, who accidentally fires a bullet from a gun, setting off a series of unexpected and humorous events. Each page features a hole representing the bullet's path, adding a unique visual element to the story. The illustrations and playful text entertain readers of all ages, showcasing Newell's pioneering sense of humor that predates and possibly influenced other well-known authors like Dr. Seuss and Richard Scarry.
Age
3-12
Length
56 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Tom Potts
Discussion points
What do you think happens next every time a new hole appears in the book?
How do you think the characters felt when they encountered the holes?
Why do you think the author chose to include so many holes in the story?
What would you do if you found a hole that led to different places?
How do you think the story would change if there were no holes at all?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child to predict what might happen in a book called 'The Hole Book.' After reading, revisit their predictions to discuss which ones were close or far off.
While reading, pause at each new hole and discuss what your child thinks it might lead to or affect the story.
Encourage your child to imagine their own version of a story with a magical hole. Ask them where their hole would lead and why.
After reading, use a drawing activity where your child creates a new page for the book, adding a hole and explaining its impact on the scene.
Discuss the importance of dealing with unexpected changes and challenges, as the characters experience with each new hole, and relate it to real-life situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: The story follows a bullet that accidentally gets fired and travels through various scenes, igniting the reader's curiosity about where it will go next.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore the world around them and ask questions about how things work, fostering a lifelong love of learning.
Example Lesson: Understanding cause and effect
Explanation: As the bullet moves from page to page, it causes various incidents, helping children grasp the concept of actions leading to consequences.
Real-World Application: Helps children predict outcomes and understand the impact of their actions in daily activities and interactions.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: The unique scenarios created by the bullet's journey spark imagination about different situations and solutions.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to think creatively when faced with problems or while engaging in play.
Example Lesson: Humor and joy in reading
Explanation: The unexpected situations and the playful illustrations provide a humorous take on a simple story, making reading enjoyable.
Real-World Application: Shows children that reading can be a fun and enjoyable activity, which can encourage a regular reading habit.