The Shirley Hughes Collection
on Goodreads (130)
What’s inside...
A cherished anthology showcasing the best of Shirley Hughes' timeless children’s stories and illustrations.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
352 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways the characters in the stories show kindness to each other? How can we do the same?
How do the characters' emotions change throughout the stories, and what causes these changes?
Can you think of a time when you felt like one of the characters in the book? What happened, and what did you do?
Which story was your favorite, and why did it stand out to you?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in today's world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, briefly discuss the cover and illustrations to predict what the book might be about, sparking initial curiosity.
Use expressive voices for different characters to make the storytelling more dynamic and engaging.
After reading a story, encourage your child to draw a scene or a character they liked, using the book’s illustrations as inspiration.
Relate themes or events from the story to real-life experiences your child may have had to deepen understanding and empathy.
Ask your child to guess what might happen next right before turning the page, which helps keep them intrigued and attentive.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of Family Bonds
Explanation: The stories in The Shirley Hughes Collection often revolve around family interactions and relationships, showcasing the warmth and support family members provide to one another.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to appreciate and nurture relationships with their family members, understanding the importance of family support in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Importance of Imaginative Play
Explanation: Shirley Hughes' work frequently highlights children engaging in imaginative play, which fosters creativity and problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children learn to use their imagination to entertain themselves and solve problems creatively, enhancing cognitive development and adaptability in real-world scenarios.
Example Lesson: Learning from Mistakes
Explanation: Characters in the collection often learn valuable lessons from the mistakes they make, understanding that errors are opportunities for growth.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to view their own mistakes as learning experiences, promoting resilience and a growth mindset in personal and academic endeavors.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Kindness
Explanation: Through interactions between characters, Hughes' stories demonstrate acts of empathy and kindness, illustrating the positive impact these qualities have on others.
Real-World Application: Children learn to consider others' feelings and perspectives, fostering a more empathetic and cooperative approach in their interactions.