Grigory Rasputin (A Wicked History)
A Wicked History Series
What’s inside...
Explore the life of a poor peasant who became one of the most powerful men in Russia by claiming to have mystical powers. The wicked ways of some of the most ruthless rulers to walk the earth are revealed in these thrilling biographies (A Wicked History) about men and women so monstrous, they make Frankenstein look like a sweetheart.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-15
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Grigori Rasputin
Discussion points
What personality traits do you think helped Rasputin become influential in Russian history?
How did Rasputin’s actions affect the people around him and the course of history?
Why do you think people had such mixed feelings about Rasputin?
What can we learn from the way Rasputin’s story was handled by different historical figures?
How do you think the story would change if it was told from another person's perspective?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to consider multiple viewpoints as they read about Rasputin’s complex history. Ask them how they feel about the decisions Rasputin made and the consequences those decisions had. Help them connect the historical context with the present by discussing similar traits in people who are influential today. This encourages critical thinking and empathy by putting themselves in someone else’s shoes. Lastly, emphasize that history often has gray areas, and understanding different perspectives helps us grasp the full picture.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of critical thinking
Explanation: The book portrays Rasputin’s ability to sway influential figures of his time, prompting readers to analyze motives and actions of historical figures.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to question and analyze the reliability of sources and people, enhancing discernment in daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical context
Explanation: Provides detailed accounts of Rasputin's influence in Russian politics, helping readers understand the complexities of historical events.
Real-World Application: Helps children grasp the significance of context and circumstance in shaping history, aiding them in studies and broadening their world view.
Example Lesson: Ethics and integrity
Explanation: Discusses the controversies surrounding Rasputin's actions and ethics, leading to discussions on right and wrong.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to uphold values and ethics despite temptations and challenges, guiding their moral development.
Example Lesson: Impact of individual actions on society
Explanation: Explores how Rasputin’s personal actions had vast implications on Russian society and its history.
Real-World Application: Imparts the understanding that personal actions can influence larger community events and instills a sense of responsibility in social behavior.
Example Lesson: Learning from history
Explanation: The book highlights the consequences of Rasputin's actions which can be lessons on the outcomes of certain behaviors.
Real-World Application: Encourages proactive learning from past occurrences to make informed decisions in the future.