Penguin Readers Level 2: Roald Dahl The Twits
All Aboard Reading Series
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
Delve into the whimsical world of The Twits, a deviously funny tale by Roald Dahl. This adapted version for Penguin Readers Level 2 captures the essence of the original story, featuring spiteful Mr. and Mrs. Twit, who enjoy playing nasty tricks on each other. The easy-to-understand language makes it perfect for young readers and provides valuable lessons on the importance of kindness and the consequences of mean-spirited behavior. Engaging and entertaining, The Twits is an ideal book for developing literacy skills and fostering a love for reading.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Muggle-Wump
The Roly-Poly Bird
Mrs. Twit
Mr. Twit
Discussion points
What do you think motivates Mr. and Mrs. Twit to play tricks on each other?
How did you feel about the way the Twits treated the Muggle-Wumps and the Roly-Poly bird?
What can we learn about kindness and respect from the Twits' behavior?
How do you think the story would change if the Twits were nice to each other and their animal friends?
Can you think of a way to resolve conflicts that doesn't involve tricks or meanness?
Tip: Role play these questions
Engage your child by expressing genuine curiosity about their opinions and feelings towards the story and its characters. Validate their feelings, whether they find the Twits’ actions funny, upsetting, or something else. Use parallels to real life to discuss the consequences of actions like those of the Twits, emphasizing the importance of respect and kindness in all relationships. Lastly, encourage creative thinking by asking your child to imagine alternative endings or behaviors for the characters.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The impact of kindness vs. cruelty
Explanation: In 'The Twits', the miserable and mean-spirited antics of Mr. and Mrs. Twit demonstrate the negativity that cruelty breeds, contrasting with the positive outcomes when characters act with kindness.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of treating others with respect and kindness, seeing firsthand how positive behaviors can lead to happier outcomes in their interactions at school or at home.
Example Lesson: The consequences of deceit
Explanation: The Twits frequently engage in deceptive plans against each other. The story showcases how their deceit leads to mistrust and unpleasant consequences between them.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of honesty and trust in building and maintaining healthy relationships with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Creativity as a problem-solving tool
Explanation: The story highlights how the Muggle-Wump monkeys use their creativity to escape the cruel tricks of the Twits, turning the tables on their captors.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think creatively when faced with challenges, understanding that sometimes unconventional solutions can be very effective.
Example Lesson: Freedom and liberation
Explanation: The theme of liberation is strong as the captured animals plot their escape. This demonstrates the value and joy of freedom.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to value their independence and to empathize with those who are restricted, whether through bullying or unfair treatment.