Once Upon a Princess and a Pea
on Goodreads (22)
What’s inside...
In a modern interpretation of the classic fairy tale, the independent-minded Princess Esmerelda proves her royalty by feeling a pea through twenty mattresses.
Age
7-12
Length
30 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the princess felt when she slept on the pea?
Why do you think the queen put a pea under all those mattresses?
How would you have solved the problem if you were the princess?
What does this story teach us about honesty and being true to oneself?
If you could add another character to the story, who would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the conversation by summarizing the story together with your child to ensure comprehension.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story and ask how they would react to various situations.
Discuss the characters' actions and motivations, and relate them to real-life scenarios to enhance empathy and understanding.
Use the questions to delve deeper into the story’s themes, and encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the narrative and characters.
Wrap up the discussion by asking your child what lessons they can learn from the fairy tale and how they can apply these lessons in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of kindness
Explanation: The princess in the story shows kindness by helping those in need, despite her own challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to offer help and show empathy towards their friends and family members, fostering a supportive community.
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: The princess's quest involves several obstacles, which she overcomes with determination.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to stay determined in the face of challenges, whether in completing a difficult school project or in resolving conflicts.
Example Lesson: Value of honesty
Explanation: Characters in the story who are honest are rewarded, teaching the merits of truthfulness.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being truthful in their daily interactions and the positive outcomes it can bring.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of differences
Explanation: The diverse characters in the book, including the unique traits of the princess, are celebrated.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to appreciate and embrace differences in others, promoting inclusivity and reducing prejudice.