The King of Large
Takeaways Series
on Goodreads (6)
What’s inside...
THE KING OF LARGE is a personal diary of Robbie Chambers, an 11-year-old overweight kid who weighs 85 kilos and refers to himself as the King of Large. Robbie enjoys soccer, but health issues including dizziness and blackouts lead him to be excluded from the school soccer team. As Robbie's self-esteem diminishes due to bullying and name-calling, and he faces troubles with his family and best friend, the story sensitively explores the impact of these issues on his well-being. Through his diary entries, readers share his thoughts, feelings, and the supportive family networks that help him address his challenges.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-12
Length
175 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the King wanted to be the largest in the land? How do you feel when you want something very much?
How did the other characters react to the King's wish? What does this teach us about considering others' feelings?
What are some ways the King could have solved his problem without causing trouble for others?
How do you think the story would have ended if the King had asked for help instead of trying to be the biggest on his own?
Can you think of a time when you needed help and asked others? How did it make you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate to the King by discussing times they have wanted something badly and how they handled the situation.
Discuss the importance of empathy by reflecting on how the other characters felt due to the King’s actions.
Use the King's experiences as a starting point to discuss problem-solving and the importance of seeking assistance when needed.
Highlight the moral of the story by discussing alternative endings based on different choices the King could have made.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness
Explanation: In 'The King of Large', the king learns that his power and size are best used to help others, rather than to intimidate or control them.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use their abilities to assist and show kindness to peers and adults, promoting a friendly and cooperative environment.
Example Lesson: Understanding diversity and acceptance
Explanation: The story portrays a kingdom full of various characters, each unique in their way, which teaches the king to appreciate and celebrate differences.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to embrace diversity among their friends and in their communities, fostering an inclusive attitude.
Example Lesson: Responsibility of leadership
Explanation: The king’s journey highlights how true leaders consider the well-being of their subjects, rather than just their own desires.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the significance of responsibility in any role of authority or teamwork, focusing on care and fairness rather than just rule.
Example Lesson: The value of humility
Explanation: Throughout the book, the king realizes that humility and admitting mistakes are vital for personal growth and relationships.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being humble, which aids in learning from mistakes and improving interpersonal connections.
Example Lesson: Perseverance through challenges
Explanation: The king faces several challenges in ruling such a vast kingdom, but learns to persevere and adapt to ensure the well-being of all.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the critical skill of perseverance when facing their own challenges, be it at school or in personal tasks.