The Body: Fall from Innocence (Penguin Readers: Level 5)
#3 of 109 in All Aboard Reading Series
on Goodreads (44,394)
What’s inside...
In 1960s America, four young boys go on a journey to search for the body of a boy killed by a train. As they travel, they discover how cruel the world can be, but also how wondrous. 'Penguin Readers' is a series of simplified novels, film novelizations and original titles that introduce students at all levels to the pleasures of reading in English. Originally designed for teaching English as a foreign language, the series' combination of high interest level and low reading age makes it suitable for both English-speaking teenagers with limited reading skills and students of English as a second language. Many titles in the series also provide access to the pre-20th century literature strands of the National Curriculum English Orders. 'Penguin Readers' are graded at seven levels of difficulty, from 'Easystarts' with a 200-word vocabulary, to Level 6 (Advanced) with a 3000-word vocabulary. In addition, titles fall into one of three sub-categories: 'Contemporary', 'Classics' or 'Originals'. At the end of each book there is a section of enjoyable exercises focusing on vocabulary building, comprehension, discussion and writing. Some titles in the series are available with an accompanying audio cassette, or in a book and cassette pack. Additionally, selected titles have free accompanying 'Penguin Readers Factsheets' which provide stimulating exercise material for students, as well as suggestions for teachers on how to exploit the Readers in class. Set in the fictional town of Castle Rock, Maine #1 New York Times bestselling author Stephen King’s timeless novella 'The Body'—originally published in his 1982 short story collection 'Different Seasons, ' and adapted into the 1986 film classic 'Stand by Me'—is now available as a stand-alone publication. It’s 1960 in the fictional town of Castle Rock, Maine. Ray Brower, a boy from a nearby town, has disappeared, and twelve-year-old Gordie Lachance and his three friends set out on a quest to find his body along the railroad tracks. During the course of their journey, Gordie, Chris Chambers, Teddy Duchamp, and Vern Tessio come to terms with death and the harsh truths of growing up in a small factory town that doesn’t offer much in the way of a future. A timeless exploration of the loneliness and isolation of young adulthood, Stephen King’s 'The Body' is an iconic, unforgettable, coming-of-age story.
Character compass
Gordon 'Gordie' Lachance
Vern Tessio
Teddy Duchamp
Chris Chambers
Ace Merrill
Discussion points
How did the main characters' relationships change throughout the story? What caused those changes?
What role does bravery play in the story, and which character do you think showed the most courage?
What are the key lessons the characters learn about friendship and growing up?
How do the characters’ adventures challenge their perspectives on life and innocence?
In what ways did the setting influence the mood and actions of the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate personal experiences to those of the characters. Ask open-ended questions that prompt deeper thinking about the themes of courage, friendship, and change. Listen actively and validate your child's opinions, fostering a comfortable space for sharing thoughts. Use examples from the book to discuss the complexities of growing up and how different experiences can lead to personal growth.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: In 'The Body: Fall from Innocence', the bond between the group of friends is central to the narrative. They support and protect each other through a series of challenging and sometimes dangerous situations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of forming and maintaining strong friendships, understanding how positive relationships can provide support during tough times.
Example Lesson: The impact of grief
Explanation: The story explores how each character deals with grief differently after the death of a peer. This portrayal helps highlight the various ways individuals process loss.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that grief is a normal emotion and that people may react differently to it. It emphasizes the importance of empathy and support for those who are grieving.
Example Lesson: Courage and overcoming fears
Explanation: The main characters demonstrate courage when they undertake a journey to find the body of a missing boy, despite their fears and the dangers they face.
Real-World Application: Children can learn about the importance of facing their fears and the role of courage in overcoming challenging or scary situations.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters' actions, whether good or bad, have consequences. This serves as a narrative tool to teach accountability.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that their actions have impacts and that they should think carefully and act responsibly.
Example Lesson: Transition from childhood to adolescence
Explanation: The story also deals with the boys' transition from childhood to adolescence, marked by their personal conflicts and the quest for the body.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that growing up involves change and can sometimes be challenging, but it is a natural and important part of life.