Of Mice and Men
Longman literature Series
What’s inside...
"Guys like us, that work on ranches, are the loneliest guys in the world. They got no family. They don't belong no place ...With us it ain't like that.We got a future ... because I got you to look after me and you got me to look after you." George and Lennie are migrant American labourers -the one alert and protective and the other strong, stupid and potentially dangerous. This is the powerful story of their relationship and their dreams of finding a more stable and less lonely way of life. This hardback educational edition comes without notes.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
13-14
Length
192 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
George Milton
Carlson
Candy
Lennie Small
Slim
Curley's Wife
Curley
Discussion points
How do the characters' dreams and aspirations influence their actions and relationships?
What role does friendship play in the story, and how does it impact the characters' decisions?
How do the settings in the book affect the mood and the choices of the characters?
In what ways do the characters show strength or vulnerability in facing their challenges?
What can we learn about empathy and compassion from the interactions between George and Lennie?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the dreams they have for themselves, drawing parallels to the characters' aspirations in the book.
Discuss the importance of understanding and supporting friends, using George and Lennie’s relationship as a reference point.
Explore the concept of consequences by examining key decisions made by the characters and their outcomes.
Highlight the emotional aspects of the book, prompting your child to talk about how certain scenes made them feel and why.
Use real-life examples to discuss themes of responsibility and caring for others, helping your child connect literature to the world around them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: Throughout 'Of Mice and Men,' characters like George show compassion and empathy towards Lennie, despite his limitations and the difficulties he causes. This portrayal can teach children the importance of understanding and supporting those who are different or have special needs.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to embrace diverse classmates and offering help or support to peers who may struggle with challenges in school or social settings.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: The book highlights how the actions of different characters lead to significant consequences, both intended and unintended. For example, George's decision regarding Lennie's fate underscores this theme.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to think about the potential outcomes of their choices and to consider how their actions can affect others around them.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: The relationship between George and Lennie illustrates the importance of friendship and loyalty. Despite various challenges, George remains loyal to Lennie, showing deep bonds of friendship.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of supporting friends in difficult times and the importance of nurturing lasting friendships.
Example Lesson: Understanding and Managing Emotions
Explanation: Characters in the story experience strong emotions, which sometimes lead to harmful outcomes. This can serve as a basis for discussing how to cope with intense feelings.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that emotions are normal but managing them appropriately is crucial to prevent negative consequences.
Example Lesson: Dreams and Aspirations
Explanation: The characters' dream of owning a piece of land represents their hopes and dreams. Despite the challenges they face, the dream gives them purpose and motivation.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to dream and to understand that while not every aspiration is achievable, having goals is important for personal growth and happiness.