Gone with the Wind (Penguin Joint Venture Readers)
All Aboard Reading Series
on Goodreads (1,244)
What’s inside...
Scarlett O'Hara is heartbroken to learn that the man she loves, Ashley Wilkes, is engaged to another woman. As the Civil War wreaks havoc, Scarlett's feelings seem trivial in comparison. However, one man knows her secret and desires her for himself. 'Penguin Readers' is a series designed to introduce readers of all levels to English literature. The series features simplified novels, film novelizations, and original titles. It includes a range of difficulty levels and categories like 'Contemporary', 'Classics', and 'Originals'. Each book contains exercises for vocabulary building, comprehension, discussion, and writing. Some books also come with audio cassettes or accompanying 'Penguin Readers Factsheets' for educational support.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-15
Length
1024 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Scarlett O'hara
India Wilkes
Prissy
Bonnie Blue Butler
Suellen O'Hara
Belle Watling
Aunt Pittypat
Mammy
Melanie Hamilton Wilkes
Frank Kennedy
Ashley Wilkes
Rhett Butler
Ellen O'Hara
Gerald O'Hara
Discussion points
What challenges did Scarlett face and how do you think she handled them?
Why do you think friendship and love are important themes in this story?
How do the characters change from the beginning to the end of the book?
What decisions would you have made if you were in Scarlett's position?
How does the setting influence the story? Can you imagine it taking place anywhere else?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare and contrast the different characters and their reactions to various situations.
Discuss the historical context of the novel and how it impacts the characters' lives and decisions.
Ask your child to think about what lessons they can learn from Scarlett's resilience and determination.
Foster a discussion about the moral dilemmas presented in the story and ask your child what they would do in those situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Scarlett O'Hara, demonstrates immense resilience throughout the novel, especially during the hardships of the Civil War and Reconstruction era.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of staying strong and persevering through personal challenges or when facing unexpected difficulties.
Example Lesson: The consequences of selfishness
Explanation: Scarlett’s often selfish actions lead to personal losses and strained relationships, showing the negative impacts of selfish behavior.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of considering others' feelings and the long-term effects of their actions on friendships and family relationships.
Example Lesson: Importance of adaptability
Explanation: Scarlett's ability to adapt to changing circumstances, shifting from a life of luxury to one of struggle, highlights the importance of adaptability.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be flexible and adapt to new environments or changes in life, such as moving to a new place or adjusting to a new school system.
Example Lesson: The impact of historical and social contexts on individuals
Explanation: The book provides a vivid depiction of how historical events, like the Civil War and the Reconstruction, drastically affect individuals and communities.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to be aware of and learn from history, understanding its relevance and impact on present circumstances.