The Little Mermaid and Other Stories (Scholastic Junior Classics)
Scholastic classics Series
What’s inside...
Four classic fairy tales are retold and compiled into one book, read 'The Little Mermaid,' 'The Steadfast Tin Soldier,' 'The Tinderbox,' and 'Thumbelina.' Dive into adventure in Hans Christian Andersen's magical world! The Little Mermaid can't wait to turn fifteen so she can swim to the surface of the sea. She wants to see the tall mountains, lovely sunsets, and people walking on two legs. When the little mermaid finally reaches land, she falls in love with a charming prince. She will be forced to give up the sea forever to remain with her true love. 'The Little Mermaid,' 'The Steadfast Tin Soldier,' 'The Tinderbox,' and 'Thumbelina' are all included in this collection, and will take readers on rich, magical adventures.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The Little Mermaid
Prince
Discussion points
How did the choices of the Little Mermaid make you feel?
What do you think about the way the Little Mermaid and other characters solved their problems?
How is the world under the sea similar to or different from our world?
What would you have done differently if you were the Little Mermaid?
What did you learn from the stories about friendship and sacrifice?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, connecting it to their own experiences. Ask open-ended questions to foster critical thinking and understanding. Validate their feelings and insights to make them feel heard and valued. Share your own thoughts and feelings about the story to model thoughtful conversation and deepen the bond with your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of self-sacrifice
Explanation: In 'The Little Mermaid', the protagonist sacrifices her voice for a chance to be with the prince she loves, demonstrating the power and impact of personal sacrifice.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of putting others' needs before their own, which can help them develop empathy and generosity towards their friends and family.
Example Lesson: The consequences of decisions
Explanation: Throughout 'The Little Mermaid', the mermaid faces numerous challenges and consequences based on her decisions, illustrating that choices have significant impacts.
Real-World Application: This story can teach children to think carefully about their decisions and consider the potential outcomes before acting.
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: Despite numerous obstacles, the Little Mermaid continues to pursue her goals. Her persistence shows the importance of trying hard and not giving up.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to apply this lesson by continuing to work towards their own goals, whether in schoolwork, sports, or personal objectives.
Example Lesson: Understanding and appreciating differences
Explanation: The Little Mermaid is intrigued and appreciative of the human world. This curiosity about the world beyond her own highlights the value of exploring and valuing different cultures and ways of life.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be open-minded and appreciate diverse cultures and perspectives, fostering a more inclusive attitude.
Example Lesson: True love involves mutual respect and care
Explanation: The Little Mermaid's love for the prince teaches that true affection is about more than superficial appearances; it is about mutual respect, care, and sacrifice.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of building relationships based on deeper values rather than superficial reasons, which can apply to friendships and family relationships as well.