Swan Lake
on Goodreads (13)
What’s inside...
Frozen meets The Wizard of Oz in this swashbuckling adventure perfect for fans of Amulet and The Okay Witch, from the acclaimed author of Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy. Odette and Dillie are supposed to be enemies, with their kingdoms feuding since before their births. However, when they meet by the lake separating their castles, they discover they are destined to be best friends. Odette, cursed to transform into a swan at sunrise, and Dillie, yearning for adventure over throne-sitting, embark on a quest to lift Odette's curse, which has caused tension between their families. Their journey through enchanted lands, facing foes and finding allies, tests their friendship and choices, ultimately deciding the fate of their world. BARBIE STARS AS Odette, the Swan Queen, in this simple, gorgeously illustrated retelling of the classic ballet. Girls will feel as though they have front-row seats to Barbie’s performance!
Age
5-6
Length
16 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the swans represent in the story?
How did the characters' actions make you feel?
Why do you think the characters made the choices they did?
What would you have done differently if you were in the character's place?
How do you think the story would change if it took place today?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a gentle voice to mimic the softness of the swans while reading aloud, enhancing the magical feel of the story.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story’s events and characters, reinforcing emotional understanding.
Pause after key events to allow your child to predict what might happen next, promoting critical thinking.
Discuss the importance of choices and consequences as presented in the story, linking them to real-life scenarios your child might face.
Relate the story's themes to personal experiences or familiar situations to help your child connect deeper with the narrative.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Overcoming Challenges
Explanation: In 'Swan Lake', the characters face and overcome various obstacles, demonstrating resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own challenges, whether at school or in personal development, with courage and persistence.
Example Lesson: The power of love and loyalty
Explanation: The story emphasizes the strength of true love and loyalty, as the characters show unwavering commitment to each other despite daunting adversities.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of being loyal and loving towards family and friends, fostering strong and supportive relationships.
Example Lesson: The consequences of deception
Explanation: Deceptive actions by certain characters lead to complications and distress, illustrating that dishonesty can have harmful effects.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of honesty and straightforwardness in their interactions, understanding that deceit can lead to undesirable outcomes.
Example Lesson: Bravery in the face of danger
Explanation: Characters in the book often stand up to daunting threats, highlighting the theme of bravery.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be brave when facing their fears, whether it's trying something new or standing up for what’s right.