Two Terrible Vikings
#1 in Two Terrible Vikings Series
on Goodreads (49)
What’s inside...
This viking duo will give Horrid Henry a run for his money! Francesca Simon had so much fun writing about two truly awful viking children (HACK AND WHACK) she has decided to take the pair, now older, on further adventures – pitching the stories squarely at the Horrid Henry readership. Set in the snowy fjords of a Viking kingdom, the terrible pair are adored by their proud parents for causing havoc and demonstrating that they are the very best worst vikings. But of course, behaving appallingly often goes getting lost and ransacking their own village by mistake, ruining birthday parties and upsetting your friends . . . With whip-smart dialogue, and accompanied by Dennis the Menace style anarchic cartoon imagery, this series is as sharp, funny and compelling as you would expect from the reigning Queen of Comedy.
Why read this book
- Vibrant adventure, fosters creativity and imagination.
- Highlights values of teamwork and resilience.
- Engaging narrative, enhances vocabulary and comprehension skills.
- Ideal for shared reading, strengthens parent-child bond.
Character compass
Hack
Whack
Discussion points
What do you think makes Hack and Whack terrible Vikings? Can you think of ways they could improve their behavior?
How did the villagers react to Hack and Whack's antics? What does this tell us about working together in a community?
If you could join Hack and Whack on one of their adventures, which one would it be and why?
How do Hack and Whack's actions affect their family and friends? Can you think of a time when your actions affected those around you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child what they found funny or interesting about Hack and Whack’s adventures. Use their answers as a gateway to discuss broader themes like community, behavior, and consequences. Encourage them to relate the story to their own experiences by asking them to think of similar situations they’ve encountered. Highlight the importance of empathy by discussing how the villagers felt and reacted throughout the story. Lastly, make sure to keep the conversation light and fun to maintain their engagement.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout 'Two Terrible Vikings,' the characters Hack and Whack learn that they achieve more when they cooperate with others, rather than causing trouble alone.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working together with their peers on group projects or during team sports, learning that collaboration leads to greater success.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: The story illustrates that mischief and disobedience have consequences. For example, Hack and Whack face repercussions from their parents and community when they misbehave.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to consider the outcomes of their actions and encourages responsible behavior both at home and in school.
Example Lesson: Respect for differences
Explanation: Hack and Whack encounter various characters who are different from them, learning to appreciate these differences rather than ridicule them.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace diversity among their classmates and neighbors, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The protagonists often find themselves in tricky situations that require creative solutions, showcasing the importance of thinking critically.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to apply critical thinking in their daily challenges, whether in academic tasks or in resolving conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: Enjoyment of adventure and imagination
Explanation: The book's adventurous plot captivates young minds, promoting a love for reading and fueling imaginative play.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore their own creative ideas and stories, enhancing their cognitive skills and emotional development through play.