The Tale of Scissors the Gnome / How Derry the Dormouse Lost His Secret (Enid Blyton Library II)
Enid Blyton Library Series
What’s inside...
In 'The Tale of Scissors the Gnome,' readers meet Scissors, a crafty gnome famous for his mischievous adventures in a magical forest. The story highlights Scissors' wit and resourcefulness as he navigates various challenges, aiding friends and outsmarting foes. 'How Derry the Dormouse Lost His Secret' recounts the journey of Derry, a shy dormouse with a special secret. When his secret is inadvertently revealed, Derry sets out to retrieve it, learning about trust and friendship. Both stories are imbued with Enid Blyton's signature charm and impart moral lessons to young readers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Scissors the Gnome feels when he helps others in the story?
How would you help Derry the Dormouse find his secret if you were in the story?
What lessons do you think we can learn from the challenges the characters face?
How do the characters in the book show kindness and teamwork?
If you could ask Scissors the Gnome or Derry the Dormouse one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the characters' experiences to their own by asking how they would feel or act in similar situations.
Praise your child's responses to foster a positive conversational atmosphere, making them feel their opinions are valued.
Discuss the moral lessons in the story, emphasizing how they can be applied in everyday life to nurture empathy and moral reasoning.
Use expressive reading techniques to make the story come alive, altering your tone and pace to match the narrative, keeping your child engaged.
After reading, ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book, then discuss why they chose that particular part.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness and helping others
Explanation: In the story, Scissors the Gnome offers his help to animals in need, exemplifying selflessness and compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to assist their peers or family members, understanding that small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
Example Lesson: The value of resourcefulness
Explanation: Derry the Dormouse uses his wits to solve problems he encounters, demonstrating ingenuity.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think creatively in solving their problems, whether in their studies or in interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: The consequences of keeping secrets
Explanation: Derry’s journey highlights how secrets can lead to misunderstandings and difficulties.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of open communication and honesty with family and friends.
Example Lesson: The strength in teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters work together to overcome obstacles, showing the power of collaboration.
Real-World Application: This can be applied to group projects or family activities, teaching children that teamwork can lead to success.