The Tale of Tam Linn (Traditional Scottish Tales)
Traditional Scottish tales Series
What’s inside...
Janet is forbidden from visiting the woods near her father's castle because legend says that long ago a local boy called Tam Linn was stolen there by the fairy queen and never returned. But Janet isn't afraid of fairy stories. Deep in the woods, by a well, she meets a fairy knight -- the famous Tam Linn, forbidden to leave by the evil queen's spell. Janet decides to save him, but when the queen and her army appear, fairy magic turns Tam Linn into a host of Scottish creatures. Janet must hold on long enough to rescue him. This retelling of the traditional Scottish fairy tale of Tam Linn, adapted for young readers, is complemented by breathtaking illustrations. It is part of the Picture Kelpies: Traditional Scottish Tales range of picture books.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Janet
Tam Linn
Discussion points
What do you think made Janet so brave to save Tam Linn from the Fairy Queen?
How do you think the characters felt during the transformation of Tam Linn?
Why is it important to help others, like Janet helped Tam Linn?
What would you have done if you were in Janet's place?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine and describe the Fairy Queen's realm. Ask what colors, sounds, and smells they think would fill the place.
Discuss the theme of courage with your child by asking them to share a time when they had to be brave.
Connect the story to real-life situations by discussing the importance of helping others and standing up for what is right.
Let your child lead parts of the story, asking them how they think a character should react in certain situations to help develop empathy and decision-making skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: In 'The Tale of Tam Linn,' the protagonist displays courage by confronting and overcoming supernatural challenges to rescue Tam Linn from the faeries.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing fears and standing up for what is right, applicable when dealing with challenging situations or standing up against wrongdoing.
Example Lesson: Loyalty and Dedication
Explanation: The story exemplifies loyalty as the protagonist remains steadfast and committed to saving Tam Linn despite the dangers.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of being dedicated to loved ones and the strength of commitment, which can be translated into being reliable friends or supportive family members.
Example Lesson: The Power of Love
Explanation: The driving force behind the protagonist's quest is her love for Tam Linn, which ultimately breaks the faerie enchantment.
Real-World Application: Children learn that love is a powerful emotion that can lead to positive changes and overcoming adversity, relevant in nurturing relationships with family and friends.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Throughout the tale, the protagonist encounters and overcomes multiple setbacks, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to persist despite difficulties, a key skill in education and personal growth.