Get Up, Elizabeth!
#6 in The Thinking Girl's Treasury of Dastardly Dames Series
What’s inside...
In the award-winning picture book 'Get up, Elizabeth!' by Shirin Yim Bridges and illustrator Alea Marley, a young Queen Elizabeth I (still a princess) is shown rising from her comfy four poster bed to face a day of grooming and dressing in stifling court attire. From scrubbing her face with almond paste to having her ruff sewn on, the book highlights the relatable struggle of getting ready, connecting young readers with the not-so-glamorous routine of a queen.
Discussion points
How did Elizabeth feel when she had to get up early, and what helped her have a better morning?
What are some things Elizabeth did to prepare for her day that you also do?
Why do you think it's important for Elizabeth to do all her morning activities?
Can you think of a time when you didn't want to get up? What did you do to make it easier?
How did Elizabeth's day turn out at the end and what did she learn about mornings?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their own morning routines to Elizabeth’s, emphasizing the importance of each task. Ask them to share how they feel during their own mornings and discuss ways to make it more enjoyable. Highlight the positive outcome of Elizabeth’s day to inspire a cheerful and proactive start to their day.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: In 'Get Up, Elizabeth!', young Elizabeth faces various obstacles while dressing up for the day, demonstrating the importance of persistence even when tasks become challenging.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by continuing to try tying their shoelaces, solving puzzles, or learning a new skill, despite initial difficulties.
Example Lesson: Independence
Explanation: The story portrays Elizabeth trying to dress herself, promoting self-reliance as she navigates choosing and putting on her clothing.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to make choices about their outfits or take responsibility for their personal belongings, fostering autonomy.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, Elizabeth encounters and overcomes various problems, such as clothes not fitting right, teaching children to think critically and find solutions.
Real-World Application: This lesson is applicable when children must decide the order to put on their clothes or when deciding how to organize their school bags.
Example Lesson: Confidence
Explanation: With each item of clothing Elizabeth successfully puts on, her confidence grows. This highlights the correlation between effort and self-assurance.
Real-World Application: Children can relate this to their experiences, feeling more confident as they master new tasks at school or in social settings.