Rags & Bones: New Twists on Timeless Tales
#4 in Sir Hereward and Mister Fitz Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (2,287)
What’s inside...
In this collection, today's most acclaimed authors reimagine their favorite classic stories, rebuilding them from the ground up with unique styles and perspectives. Set within the realms of various fiction genres, these short stories pay homage to literary achievements of the past while providing fresh and thought provoking narratives for a new generation. The contents include works inspired by tales such as 'The Faerie Queene', 'The Machine Stops', and 'Sleeping Beauty', among others, each reassembled by award-winning and bestselling authors to resonate with modern readers.
Character compass
Queen
Dwarfs
Discussion points
How do you think the characters felt when they faced challenges in the story? Can you relate to any of their feelings?
What is one lesson you learned from one of the tales? How can you apply that lesson in your own life?
If you could change one part of any story in the book, what would it be and why?
Which story was your favorite and what did you like most about it?
How do the authors use different elements like magic or adventure to change the original story? Did you enjoy the new twist?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about each story, creating a safe space for open discussion. Use the questions to delve deeper into the themes, comparing them to everyday situations your child might encounter. Highlight the moral lessons and ask your child how they might handle similar scenarios in their own lives. Lastly, emphasize the creative aspect of the book by asking your child how they might rewrite their favorite fairy tale.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The stories in 'Rags & Bones' provide new perspectives on classic tales, encouraging readers to understand and empathize with different characters’ viewpoints.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to consider others’ feelings and perspectives in school or during play, fostering better relationships.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Perseverance
Explanation: Many protagonists in these retold stories face significant challenges but persist until they overcome them, illustrating the value of persistence.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children in persisting through difficulties with schoolwork, sports, or learning new skills, teaching them the importance of not giving up.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to Change
Explanation: As the known stories take unexpected turns, they show how characters adapt to new situations, highlighting adaptability.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to adapt to changes such as moving to a new school, changes in family dynamics, or adapting to new social environments.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: The twists in these tales encourage readers to look beyond the surface and think critically about the motivations and outcomes of each character’s actions.
Real-World Application: This skill can be applied in a child’s interaction with media, their analysis of stories or situations, and in making reasoned decisions.
Example Lesson: Moral Integrity
Explanation: Characters in these stories often face moral dilemmas. Observing how these characters resolve these conflicts can teach readers about integrity.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to uphold their values and do what is right, even when faced with peer pressure or challenging situations.