The Mightiest Heart
What’s inside...
Based on a Welsh legend about Prince Llywelyn and his loyal dog Gelert, who is wrongly banished when the prince believes that the dog has attacked his son. A talented new illustrator makes her debut with this touching story based on the legend of Llywelyn, a thirteenth-century Welsh prince who shared a special relationship with his loyal hound Gelert.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made the lion so loyal and brave in the story?
How did the characters show kindness to each other?
What would you have done if you were in the lion's place?
Why is it important to stand up for your friends, like the characters in the book?
How did the story make you feel about bravery and friendship?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story and relate it to their own experiences of friendship and courage.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings and discuss how those changes could affect the story’s message about loyalty and bravery.
Use the illustrations in the book to help your child describe the emotions and actions of the characters, enhancing their understanding and empathy.
Point out moments of conflict and resolution in the story, discussing with your child how the characters handled challenging situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Loyalty and Sacrifice
Explanation: In 'The Mightiest Heart', the loyal dog demonstrates unwavering devotion to its master, offering protection and companionship, and ultimately makes a significant sacrifice.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of being loyal and protective towards their friends and family members, understanding the value of selflessness and caring for others.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: Throughout the tale, the characters face various challenges that require bravery. The dog, despite fears, stands up against threats to protect the kingdom.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face their fears and stand up for what is right, teaching them the virtue of bravery in difficult situations.
Example Lesson: Forgiveness
Explanation: The story showcases the power of forgiveness when one character wrongs another but is later forgiven, helping to restore peace and harmony.
Real-World Application: It helps children understand the importance of forgiving others, promoting emotional healing and sustaining relationships.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Characters in the book encounter setbacks but continue to persevere. The dog’s resilience in overcoming adversity is particularly emphasized.
Real-World Application: Children learn that perseverance is key in overcoming obstacles, instilling an attitude of resilience in personal challenges and setbacks.