Wuthering Heights
Usborne young reading. Series four
on Goodreads (10)
What’s inside...
High on the windswept Yorkshire moors, an old farmhouse hides the secrets of a doomed love story. What lies beneath the mystery of Wuthering Heights, and why is Heathcliff, its reclusive owner, intent on cruelty and revenge? Part of the Usborne Young Reading series, this retelling of the classic love story is ideal for newly independent readers. A gripping story of love and revenge, set in the dramatic backdrop of the Yorkshire moors in the 19th century. Heathcliff is brought up by the Earnshaw family, but bullied and humiliated by Catherine Earnshaw’s brother. He leaves, wrongly believing his love for Catherine is not reciprocated, and returns years later, a wealthy man, to exact revenge. A brand new series of literary classics retold for young readers in a simplified, shortened and accessible way. Specially written for confident readers, this is a great way to get children ready to step out of the Readers world into the fantastic world of fiction, as this series will build up confidence and stamina in readers as well as a sense of achievement in discovering them. These are also the perfect size for book reports at school, or reading challenges in libraries!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think motivates the characters to act the way they do?
How do the relationships between the characters change throughout the story?
What emotions did you feel while reading about the events at Wuthering Heights?
How do you think the setting of the moors affects the story?
Can you think of any decisions the characters made that you would have done differently?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book to create an open atmosphere. Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story and its characters. Discuss the historical and geographical setting of the book to enhance understanding. Relate the themes and conflicts in the book to real-life situations to aid comprehension and empathy. Pose hypothetical situations inspired by the book’s events to develop critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The impact of love and passion
Explanation: The story demonstrates how intense emotions can shape a person's actions and relationships, focusing on the complex love between the characters.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of managing their emotions and the effects their actions have on others.
Example Lesson: Consequences of vengeance
Explanation: The narrative showcases how seeking revenge can lead to suffering and unhappiness, emphasizing the destructive path of Heathcliff’s vengeance.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to understand the importance of forgiveness and the negative impact of holding grudges.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: Characters in the book face numerous challenges, demonstrating resilience and the ability to endure hardships.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of perseverance and overcoming obstacles in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Social class and inequality
Explanation: The book explores themes of social hierarchy and the struggle between classes, illustrating how characters are treated based on their status.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand and discuss issues of fairness, equality, and empathy towards all individuals regardless of their background.
Example Lesson: Impact of environment on character
Explanation: The setting of the Wuthering Heights farmhouse illustrates how environment can influence a person's disposition and outlook on life.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children about the importance of nurturing environments and being aware of how surroundings affect their mood and behavior.