The Sailor Who Captured the Sea: And Other Celtic Tales
on Goodreads (9)
What’s inside...
Brings together a tale of the Irish Book of Kells which, when copied, will bring lasting peace to the land; a Scottish tale of a battle between a mortal king and the fairy queen; and a tale from Cornwall of a knight, his lady, and a terrible beast. In ancient Ireland, watch a young artist struggle to complete an illuminated manuscript within the darkened walls of a monastery. Find out how a Scottish king outwits the Queen of the Fairies to save his own sons. On a rocky cliff in Cornwall, witness the horrifying ending of a ghost, a knight, and a beautiful woman named Morgenna. Much of the rich folklore we know today -- such as the legendary tales of Camelot-comes from the British Isles. Here are stories about ghosts, fairies, kings, beautiful noblewomen, magical swords, and Viking raiders. Visit misty moors, rocky cliffs, and darkened monasteries with acclaimed folklorist Deborah Nourse Lattimore as she spins traditional tales into story magic.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the sailor felt when he captured the sea?
How do the stories in the book show the importance of nature in Celtic culture?
Which tale was your favorite and why?
Can you think of a time when you overcame a challenge, like the characters in these tales?
How do the illustrations enhance the stories told in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the tales to their personal experiences, fostering a deeper connection to the stories. Ask them to imagine alternative endings to the tales, boosting their creativity. Discuss the moral lessons in each story and relate them to real-life situations to enhance their understanding. Share your interpretations of the tales and encourage your child to express their thoughts, promoting an open dialogue. Highlight the cultural aspects of the stories to broaden your child’s world view.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of courage and bravery
Explanation: Through the tales of sailors and warriors facing formidable creatures and challenges, the book demonstrates how courage can lead to success and fulfillment.
Real-World Application: Children can build resilience and confidence when facing their own challenges, such as trying new activities or standing up for themselves and others.
Example Lesson: The value of wisdom and cleverness
Explanation: Characters in the stories often use their wit to outsmart enemies or solve difficult problems, highlighting that brains are as important as brawn.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to value problem-solving and critical thinking, applying cleverness in school tasks or in resolving conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature and the environment
Explanation: Celtic tales are deeply rooted in nature, with many stories emphasizing the sacredness of the natural world and its creatures.
Real-World Application: This fosters a sense of environmental responsibility in children, encouraging them to participate in conservation efforts and to appreciate the natural world around them.
Example Lesson: The power of storytelling
Explanation: The book itself is a collection of tales passed down through generations, showcasing how stories can connect us to our history and to each other.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to share their own stories and listen to others’, enhancing their communication skills and empathy.