The Wind in the Willows: (Young Reading Series 2)
Usborne Complete Books Series
on Goodreads (4,422)
What’s inside...
A retelling of the classic story by Kenneth Grahame for young readers, where they'll follow the adventures of Mole, Ratty, Badger, and Mr. Toad. The book encapsulates the joys and pitfalls of camaraderie, the thrill of the open road, and the quiet pleasures of life on the river. This is an evocative picture book based on the beloved classic tale and retold for younger children. 'The Wind in the Willows' is a re-telling of the beloved Kenneth Grahame story following the adventures of four riverside Mole, Ratty, Badger and, of course, the eponymous Mr Toad. It is evocatively illustrated by Mauro Evangelista, who also illustrated the Young Reading titles 'Alice in Wonderland' and 'The Wizard of Oz'.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes Mole and Rat such good friends? Can you describe a time when you helped a friend like they help each other?
How did the characters' adventures make you feel? Which adventure would you like to go on and why?
What can we learn from Toad's mistakes? How do you think he felt when his friends tried to help him?
How do the animals in the story show kindness to one another? Can you think of a way we can be kind to our friends or neighbors today?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they think each character feels during key moments in the story.
Connect the story to real-life by discussing similar experiences your child might have had or observed.
Promote critical thinking by discussing the consequences of the characters’ actions and the choices they made.
Strengthen reading comprehension by asking your child to summarize parts of the book or predict what might happen next.
Foster a love for reading by expressing enthusiasm when discussing the book's themes and characters.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: The story demonstrates the value of friendship through the supportive interactions between the characters, especially when they face challenges or adventures.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and nurture friendships, understanding that true friends support and help each other in difficult times.
Example Lesson: Respecting individual differences
Explanation: The characters in the book, such as Toad, Rat, Mole, and Badger, all have distinct personalities and strengths. The story emphasizes how these differences contribute to solving problems and making life richer.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to respect and celebrate individual differences among their peers, which can lead to more harmonious interactions in school and other social settings.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: Toad's reckless behavior and disregard for rules lead to several consequences in the story, showing the importance of thinking before acting.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to consider the potential outcomes of their actions and make more responsible choices.
Example Lesson: Bravery and selflessness
Explanation: Several characters, such as Rat and Mole, display acts of bravery and selflessness throughout the story, particularly when they rescue Toad or face the weasels.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to stand up for what is right and to consider others' welfare, potentially leading to acts of kindness and courage in their own lives.
Example Lesson: The joy of adventure
Explanation: The narrative celebrates the thrill of exploration and adventure, showcasing the characters' various escapades.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be curious and adventurous, exploring the world around them while learning from their experiences.