#1 in Heinemann New Windmills Series
New Windmills: The Splendid Journey (New Windmills)
What’s inside...
One of a series of top-quality fiction for schools, this is the story of a boy who, when his parents died on the Oregon Trail in the 1940s, led his younger brothers and sisters through a thousand miles of hardship to their new home.
Discussion points
What do you think inspired the characters to start their splendid journey?
How do you think the journey changed the characters by the end of the story?
Can you think of a time when you embarked on a journey (big or small) and learned something new about yourself or the world?
What was the most surprising part of the story for you, and why?
If you were to join the characters on their journey, what would you bring along and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by sharing your own thoughts about the book's themes, making it a mutual conversation, not just a questioning session.
Encourage your child to draw or write about a favorite scene from the book to deepen their connection with the narrative.
Emphasize listening to your child’s responses without interruption, showing that their thoughts and opinions are valued.
Relate the characters' experiences to real-life situations your child might encounter to help them understand the relevance of the story to their own life.
Ask your child to guess what might happen next after the book ends, or to invent their own adventure inspired by the book, fostering creativity and imagination.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: In 'New Windmills: The Splendid Journey', the characters face numerous challenges during their journey that they must overcome through persistence and determination.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to maintain their efforts and not give up when facing difficulties in their studies, sports, or other activities.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: The story highlights how characters collaborate and use each member's strengths to navigate their adventures, emphasizing that teamwork often leads to success.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to work cooperatively with others in school projects, group sports, or family tasks, appreciating the power of collective effort.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity
Explanation: Throughout their journey, the characters encounter diverse cultures and perspectives, learning to respect and value these differences.
Real-World Application: This lesson prepares children to appreciate diversity in their classrooms and communities, fostering an environment of inclusion and respect.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing the unknown
Explanation: As the protagonists embark on an uncertain journey, they show bravery in confronting new challenges, highlighting the virtue of courage.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to face new experiences or challenges head-on, whether trying a new sport, tackling a difficult subject or making new friends.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity
Explanation: The characters’ quest is driven by a curiosity to explore and learn, showcasing how curiosity can lead to significant personal growth.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to pursue their interests and inquiries, whether in academics, exploring nature, or learning a new hobby.