The Snow Queen
Baby Board Books Series
What’s inside...
Wrap up warmly and join Gerda on her quest to rescue her best friend from the icy clutches of the wicked Snow Queen. This charming retelling of Hans Christian Andersen's classic fairy tale is beautifully complemented by the magical illustrations of Alan Marks. With sturdy board pages so the book can be enjoyed time and time again. One of Andersen’s longest, best and most highly acclaimed fairy tales, first published in Danish in 1845. A tale of good and evil, where Kay and Gerda are friends. One day, Kay gets splinters from a magic mirror in his eyes and heart, and is taken away to the frozen realm of the Snow Queen who intends to keep him there. Gerda must embark on an adventurous quest that takes her far away to find Kay and save him from the Snow Queen’s cold and icy palace. This edition contains the original illustrations made by Vilhelm Pedersen.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-8
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Gerda
Kay
The Reindeer
Snow Queen
Discussion points
What did Gerda learn about friendship and bravery during her journey to find Kay?
How did the Snow Queen's palace make you feel, and why do you think it was described that way?
In what ways did the different characters help or hinder Gerda on her quest?
What would you have done if you were in Gerda's place when she encountered the Snow Queen?
How do you think Kay felt when Gerda finally found him, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think deeply about the characters' motivations and feelings. Use follow-up questions like 'Why do you think that?' to delve deeper into your child’s understanding. Highlight the importance of perseverance and friendship as shown through Gerda's journey. Relate the story’s situations to real-life scenarios to help your child connect with the themes of the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of resilience and perseverance
Explanation: In 'The Snow Queen,' the protagonist, Gerda, embarks on a challenging journey to save her friend Kai from the Snow Queen’s icy palace. Her determination and relentless effort reflect the importance of not giving up despite difficulties.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to apply the same determination in overcoming their own challenges, whether it be mastering a new skill, resolving conflicts with friends, or enduring any personal hardship.
Example Lesson: Empathy and the power of love
Explanation: Throughout her quest, Gerda shows deep empathy and caring for those she meets, and ultimately, it is her love for Kai that breaks the Snow Queen’s spell. This underscores the story’s message about the transformative power of love and compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to show empathy and care towards others in their daily interactions, understanding that kindness and love are powerful tools in strengthening relationships and resolving conflicts.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing the unknown
Explanation: Gerda travels through many unfamiliar and frightening places during her search for Kai. Her bravery in facing these unknowns highlights the importance of courage when venturing into new experiences or challenges.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children feel more confident when facing new situations, such as moving to a new school, trying out a new activity, or making new friends.
Example Lesson: Importance of helping others
Explanation: On her journey, Gerda receives help from various characters but also takes the time to assist others she meets along the way. This reciprocity illustrates the value of mutual aid and community support.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of helping others in need and understand how their actions can contribute to a supportive and caring community environment.