Three Musketeers (Calico Illustrated Classics Set 2)
Calico Illustrated Classics Series
What’s inside...
In seventeenth-century France, young d'Artagnan goes to Paris to make his fortune and join the king's Musketeers. Along the way, he initially quarrels with, then befriends three Musketeers and joins them in trying to outwit the enemies of the king and queen. In this classic tale by Alexandre Dumas, d'Artagnan and his new friends embark on an adventurous journey to protect the queen from the Cardinal. Love, honor, and friendships are tested in this adaptation of Dumas's The Three Musketeers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the friendship between the musketeers helps them overcome their challenges?
What qualities do Athos, Porthos, and Aramis have that you admire, and why?
If you were asked to join the musketeers, what personal strengths would you bring to their group?
How do the characters in the story show loyalty and courage throughout their adventures?
In what ways do the musketeers show that 'All for one and one for all' is an important motto for them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and opinions about the story, fostering a deeper understanding of the themes of loyalty and friendship. Ask them to relate the adventures of the musketeers to real-life scenarios, enhancing their ability to apply literary lessons to their own experiences. Highlight the historical setting and discuss the different aspects of life during that time period, making the reading experience both educational and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of loyalty
Explanation: The protagonists in 'Three Musketeers' demonstrate unwavering loyalty to each other throughout their adventures, emphasizing the value of steadfast friendships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and nurture loyalty in their own friendships, understanding the importance of supporting each other in challenging times.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout the story, the musketeers face various challenges and dangerous situations but show courage and bravery, teaching children the value of facing fears directly.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children learn to confront their fears and challenges, whether it's standing up to a bully, trying out for a sports team, or speaking in front of a class.
Example Lesson: The significance of teamwork
Explanation: The musketeers consistently work together to overcome obstacles, showcasing how teamwork can achieve goals that might seem impossible for an individual.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to collaborate with peers in school projects, sports, and other group activities, understanding that collective effort often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Justice and fairness
Explanation: The story of the 'Three Musketeers' often centers around themes of justice, as the characters strive to right the wrongs in their society.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of standing up for what is right and striving to treat others fairly, both in their immediate interactions and in understanding larger social issues.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The musketeers frequently encounter setbacks on their journey, yet their determination never wanes. This highlights the importance of persevering despite difficulties.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to persist in their endeavors, whether they are academic challenges, learning a new skill, or maintaining relationships, emphasizing that perseverance often leads to success.