Of Lions and Unicorns
not part of a series
What’s inside...
A collection of short stories and excerpts from Michael Morpurgo's most famous children's novels. No one believes Tom when he says he has seen a lion strolling through the orchard with a string of sausages dangling from its mouth. No one, that is, except Clare, the cleverest girl in Tom's class. Why does Clare believe him? Because she knows something about Tom's story that no one else does. Tom is determined to prove his story is true by attempting to catch the lion with Clare's help.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-11
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What similarities and differences do you notice between the lion and the unicorn in the story?
How do the characters' actions show courage and kindness?
What would you have done if you were in the same situation as the lion?
Why do you think the author chose a lion and a unicorn to tell this story?
How do you feel about the ending of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a soft and curious tone when asking questions to make the child feel comfortable in expressing their thoughts.
Relate the themes of the book to the child’s own experiences to make the conversation more relevant.
Encourage the child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios to foster creativity.
Praise the child’s responses to boost their confidence in expressing their opinions and ideas.
Listen actively and show genuine interest in the child’s perspective to deepen the discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Friendship and Loyalty
Explanation: In 'Of Lions and Unicorns,' the characters demonstrate strong bonds and support for each other, overcoming various obstacles together.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of standing by their friends and being dependable, nurturing their interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: Characters in the book often face fearful situations, yet they choose to act bravely. This is exemplified when they confront challenges head-on, even when odds are against them.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to face their personal fears and challenges, promoting personal growth and resilience.
Example Lesson: Imagination and Creativity
Explanation: The fantasy elements in the book, involving lions and unicorns, encourage children to explore their own imagination and creativity through the narrative.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to use their imagination not only while playing but also in creative problem-solving and expressive activities.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: As the story unfolds, characters learn to understand and empathize with each other’s feelings and perspectives, especially when interacting with creatures from different backgrounds.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate diversity and be empathetic towards others in real-life social interactions.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Care
Explanation: Taking care of magical and real creatures in the story teaches characters responsibility. This is showcased when children take turns caring for a wounded unicorn.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take responsibility in caring for pets, their belongings, and in their roles within their family and community.