The Thwarting Of Baron Bolligr
The New windmill series
on Goodreads (102)
What’s inside...
Based on the stage-play, this story charts the struggle between the forces of good and evil as represented by the very good but strait-laced Sir Oblong fitz Oblong, and the very evil and tyrannous Baron Bolligrew, aided by the bullying Squire Blackheart. A tale of long ago, when dragons were still common. The Duke and his Knights, having slain the last dragon in the Dukedom, are looking forward to a nice period of inactivity. Sir Oblong Fitz Oblong, however, declares they must go elsewhere to do further good works. To avoid this, he is sent on a one man mission to overcome the dragon in the Bolligrew Islands. There he meets the wicked 15th Baron and his blundering Squire Blackheart and others. After passing through many fantastic adventures, he at last encounters the Dragon.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
185 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Sir Oblong Fitz-Oblong
Baron Bolligrew
Discussion points
What do you think made Baron Bolligrew act the way he did?
How did the characters work together to thwart Baron Bolligrew’s plans?
What would you have done if you were in the place of one of the characters?
How do you think the story would change if Baron Bolligrew was kind?
What did you learn about bravery and teamwork from this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters to life, which will help capture your child's interest and imagination.
After reading, ask your child how they felt about the story and the characters, fostering emotional intelligence.
Relate the book's themes to your child's experiences by discussing similar instances where they had to work with others to overcome a challenge.
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them what they would change in the story and why.
Highlight the moral lessons of the story and discuss their importance to everyday life, instilling values through literature.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In the story, characters come together to thwart Baron Bolligrew's nefarious plans, demonstrating how working as a team can achieve outcomes that might be impossible for an individual alone.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of cooperating with others to reach a common goal, whether in school projects or sports.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist shows bravery when confronting the antagonist, Baron Bolligrew, teaching readers that courage is not the absence of fear, but acting despite it.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face their own fears and stand up for what is right, even when it's difficult.
Example Lesson: The consequences of greed
Explanation: Baron Bolligrew's greedy actions lead to negative outcomes, highlighting how greed can ultimately be self-destructive.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to value fairness and generosity, understanding that selfishness can harm relationships and community harmony.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters use cleverness and wit to solve problems posed by Baron Bolligrew, showcasing the importance of thinking critically and creatively.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children apply problem-solving skills in academic settings or personal challenges, promoting a growth mindset.
Example Lesson: The importance of integrity
Explanation: Characters who choose honesty over deceit are rewarded, reinforcing that integrity is a valuable trait.
Real-World Application: Such a lesson teaches children to be honest in their actions and words, contributing to their development into trustworthy individuals.