Tony Robinson's Weird World of Wonders: World War II
#3 of 7 in Weird World of Wonders Series
on Goodreads (51)
What’s inside...
Tony Robinson's Weird World of World War II takes readers on a fast-paced journey through the important, amusing, and bizarre aspects of the war. The book provides a unique perspective on World War II, covering everything from the usefulness of mashed potato to the secrets behind D-Day. It also won the Best Book with Facts in the 2014 Blue Peter Book Awards. This action-packed, fact-filled book offers an unconventional take on history that is both informative and entertaining.
Discussion points
What are some ways people showed bravery during World War II?
How did children like you contribute to the war effort?
What did you learn about how different countries were involved in the war?
Can you think of a moment in the book that made you feel hopeful?
How do you think the world changed after World War II?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child what they knew about World War II before reading the book and what new things they have learned.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the stories of bravery and hardship in the book.
Link the historical events to current events to help your child see the relevance of history in today's world.
Use a world map to identify the different countries involved in World War II as mentioned in the book, enhancing geographical knowledge alongside historical learning.
Discuss the moral decisions made by individuals in the book and ask your child what they would have done in similar situations, fostering critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of resilience
Explanation: Throughout 'Tony Robinson's Weird World of Wonders: World War II', characters demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity, dealing with the challenges of wartime.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to stay strong and persistent in difficult situations, such as during exams or challenging social scenarios.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical context
Explanation: The book provides insights into World War II, helping children understand the historical events and their impact on the world.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children develop a sense of empathy and perspective, allowing them to appreciate the sacrifices of past generations and the importance of peace.
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: Characters in the book often work together to overcome obstacles, highlighting the effectiveness of teamwork during tough times.
Real-World Application: Children can implement this principle by working collaboratively in group tasks at school or during team sports.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking
Explanation: The book encourages readers to think critically about historical events and their narratives, promoting a deeper understanding of history.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to question and analyze information they receive in school or media, helping them to form educated opinions.