Penguin Readers Level 4: Me Before You
All Aboard Reading Series
on Goodreads (1,210)
What’s inside...
The novel follows Louisa Clark, a cheerful and quirky young woman from a small town in England, who becomes the caretaker for Will Traynor, a wealthy young banker left paralyzed from a motorcycle accident. As Louisa and Will form an unlikely bond, she becomes determined to show him that life is still worth living. Penguin Readers is an ELT graded reader series for learners of English as a foreign language, providing carefully adapted text, new illustrations, and language learning exercises. The series includes popular classics, contemporary fiction, and non-fiction, and follows the Common European Framework of Reference for language learning with exercises designed to practise grammar, vocabulary, and key exam skills. When Lou Clark loses her job at a café, she takes a job caring for Will, whose accident has left him disillusioned with life. Neither of them knows that their lives are about to change forever.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-17
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Louisa Clark
Will Traynor
Nathan
Patrick
Treena Clark
Steven Traynor
Camilla Traynor
Bernard Clark
Josie Clark
Discussion points
How do the choices Louisa makes throughout the story impact her life and the lives of others around her?
What do you think about the relationship between Louisa and Will? How does it change throughout the story?
What are some ways that the characters in the story show strength and courage?
How does the book address the theme of finding happiness in difficult circumstances?
What can we learn about empathy and understanding from the way characters interact with each other?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the relationship dynamics in the story and relate them to their personal experiences.
Discuss the moral dilemmas presented and ask your child what they would have done in similar situations, fostering critical thinking.
Highlight the growth of characters throughout the book to talk about personal development and resilience.
Use examples from the book to discuss broader social themes, such as accessibility and personal agency.
After discussing, relate the themes back to your child’s daily life to enhance personal connection and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The story showcases the building relationship between Lou and Will, highlighting the importance of understanding others' perspectives and challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to listen and understand their friends' or family members' feelings and situations, promoting empathy in social interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of choice and respect for decisions
Explanation: Will's choices about his life challenge characters to consider and respect the decisions of others, even when they disagree.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate personal choices and respect others' decisions, fostering a respectful dialogue and interaction.
Example Lesson: Adaptability and resilience
Explanation: The character of Lou exemplifies adaptability and resilience as she navigates new challenges in her job and personal growth.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of adapting to new situations and overcoming obstacles, enhancing their problem-solving skills and resilience in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Finding joy in difficult circumstances
Explanation: Despite the serious themes, the story is infused with moments of joy and humor, teaching that happiness can be found even in tough times.
Real-World Application: This lesson prepares children to find positivity and joy, regardless of the difficulties they may face, promoting a healthy and optimistic outlook.