Coraline
What’s inside...
This edition of New York Times bestselling and Newbery Medal-winning author Neil Gaiman's modern classic, Coraline--also an Academy Award-nominated film--is enriched with a foreword from the author, a reader's guide, and more."Coraline discovered the door a little while after they moved into the house...."When Coraline steps through a door to find another house strangely similar to her own (only better), things seem marvelous.But there's another mother there, and another father, and they want her to stay and be their little girl. They want to change her and never let her go.Coraline will have to fight with all her wit and courage if she is to save herself and return to her ordinary life.Neil Gaiman's Coraline is a can't-miss classic that enthralls readers age 8 to 12 but also adults who enjoy a perfect smart spooky read.
Age
8-11
Length
189 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Discussion points
How do you think Coraline felt when she discovered the other world? Can you share a time when you faced something unfamiliar?
What differences did you notice between Coraline’s real parents and her other parents? Why do you think those differences were important to the story?
Coraline shows a lot of bravery throughout her adventure. Can you think of a time when you had to be brave? What did you learn from that experience?
Why do you think Coraline decided to return to the real world, even though she could have everything she wanted in the other world?
How did Coraline help the trapped children? What does this tell us about helping others in need?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts on the book to show it’s a safe space for open discussion.
Encourage your child to compare and contrast their feelings with Coraline’s decisions and actions, promoting empathy and deeper understanding.
Ask your child to draw parallels between the fantasy elements of the story and real-life situations to enhance critical thinking.
Reinforce the concept of bravery demonstrated by Coraline, discussing its importance in everyday life and personal growth.
Wrap up the discussion by reflecting on the morale of the story and its implications on real-world behaviors and decisions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Bravery and Courage
Explanation: Coraline demonstrates bravery by choosing to face her fears and challenges in order to save her parents and herself from the Other Mother.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to confront their own fears and challenges, whether it's standing up to a bully, trying out for a sports team, or dealing with a new situation.
Example Lesson: The importance of curiosity and exploration
Explanation: Coraline's adventurous spirit leads her to discover the hidden door and the parallel universe. Her curiosity helps her learn more about her world and herself.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore new activities, ask questions, and learn about the world around them, fostering a love of learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: Understanding the value of family and home
Explanation: Throughout her ordeal, Coraline realizes how much she values her real parents and her true home, despite their imperfections.
Real-World Application: Helps children appreciate their family and the security and love that their home offers, even if it's not perfect.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and making informed decisions
Explanation: Coraline has to differentiate between the alluring yet deceptive offerings of the Other Mother and the real world. She critically assesses situations to make the best choices.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of evaluating situations rather than making impulsive decisions, particularly when something seems too good to be true.
Example Lesson: Resilience and resourcefulness
Explanation: Coraline shows resilience and resourcefulness by using her wits and the tools available to her to solve problems and navigate the other world.
Real-World Application: Instills the values of perseverance and creativity in problem-solving, which are essential skills in both academic and personal challenges.