The Girl with No Nose
What’s inside...
Life is tough in Victorian times. Chimney sweeps send little children up chimneys. Crowds watch hangings for fun. Freaks are on show at the circus. This is the world into which Alice Peasbody is born. Alice is a girl with no nose. But her path will be transformed by love and friendship.
Age
8-12
Length
86 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Alice felt when she first went to school without her nose?
Why do you think the other children reacted the way they did to Alice?
What does this story teach us about being different or feeling like an outsider?
Can you think of a time when you felt different from others? How did you handle it?
What would you have done if you were a classmate of Alice?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a gentle tone to foster a safe space for your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the book’s characters and their experiences.
Encourage empathy by asking your child to put themselves in Alice’s shoes. Ask them how they would feel in similar situations.
Relate the book’s themes to your child’s personal experiences with feeling different or dealing with challenges.
Highlight the positive outcomes from the story, such as displays of kindness and understanding, and discuss their importance in real life.
Praise your child’s responses and insights during the conversation to build their confidence in expressing their thoughts and feelings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The story portrays the challenges faced by the protagonist, helping readers understand and empathize with those who are different.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more compassionate and supportive towards their peers who may have visible differences or disabilities.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Courage
Explanation: The protagonist's journey showcases her bravery in facing social adversity and personal challenges.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be steadfast and brave in difficult situations, promoting a positive attitude towards overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Self-Acceptance
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes the importance of accepting and loving oneself regardless of external appearances.
Real-World Application: Helps children build self-esteem and confidence, teaching them to value their unique qualities and characteristics.
Example Lesson: The importance of Friendship
Explanation: The book highlights the supportive relationships the protagonist forms, underlining the value of true friends who see beyond superficial appearances.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to cherish and seek out friendships that are based on mutual respect and understanding.