The Swiss Family Robinson
Troll Illustrated Classics. Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (107,946)
What’s inside...
Relates the fortunes of a shipwrecked family as they imaginatively adapt to life on an island with abundant animal and plant life. “For many days we had been tempest-tossed…the raging storm increased in fury until on the seventh day all hope was lost.” From these dire opening lines, a timeless story of adventure begins. One family will emerge alive from this terrible storm: the Robinsons—a Swiss pastor, his wife, and four sons, plus two dogs and a shipload of livestock. Inspired by Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe, this story of survival and ingenuity unfolds as the family makes use of the materials at hand to sustain themselves and explore the island.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-12
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What would you do if you were stranded on a deserted island like the Robinson family?
Which character did you relate to the most and why?
How did the family work together to solve their problems on the island?
What invention from the book would you like to create and why?
How do you think the story would change if it happened in today's world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Highlight the importance of family and teamwork. Discuss with your child how the Robinson family used their skills to survive and how we can use teamwork in our own family.
Encourage creativity by asking your child to think of items they would bring to a deserted island and why those particular items.
Use the differences between the characters in the book to talk about the importance of diverse strengths and personalities in overcoming challenges.
After reading the book, consider watching a film adaptation with your child to compare and contrast the storytelling.
Discuss the book’s historical context and how technology might change the family’s survival tactics in a modern setting.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness and problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the Robinson family is faced with numerous challenges on the deserted island. They use their knowledge and the resources available to build a home, find food, and create a new life.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by using critical thinking and creativity to solve problems they encounter in school or during play, understanding that sometimes solutions require thinking outside the box.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and teamwork
Explanation: The Robinson family's survival is heavily dependent on each member contributing and working together, showcasing the strength of family unity and cooperation.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of collaborating with others and supporting family members, fostering strong bonds and effective teamwork in group projects or family activities.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The family constantly faces setbacks and dangers but they never give up. Their resilience helps them to adapt and thrive in an unfamiliar environment.
Real-World Application: Children learn that perseverance and a positive attitude are crucial when dealing with difficulties, whether it's overcoming a tough subject at school or dealing with social challenges.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: Living on an island, the family learns to coexist with nature, understanding its limits and resources, which helps them to survive and respect the environment.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be environmentally conscious, teaching them the importance of preserving natural resources and the environment in daily life.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning
Explanation: The children in the story are constantly exploring the island and learning from their surroundings, demonstrating a strong will to learn and discover.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to be curious about the world around them, encouraging exploration and learning in all areas of life, enhancing their educational journey.