The King Who Wouldn't Sleep
What’s inside...
A brilliantly colourful and enchanting picture book story that can also be used to teach children the days of the week and to count one to ten. There once was a king who wouldn't sleep -- not even a wink! -- until he found the perfect prince for his lovely daughter. Princes came from all around bearing gifts. Not one of them was right for the princess. But there was someone else watching with an unexpectedly cunning plan up his not-so-royal sleeve.
Age
4-9
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
King
Farmers' Daughter
Discussion points
Why do you think the king wouldn't sleep? What was he trying to achieve by staying awake?
How do you think the different characters felt about the king's decision not to sleep?
What would you have done to help the king find the perfect queen?
How does the story show the importance of sleep for everyone?
What lesson did you learn from the king’s experience by the end of the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts on the king’s actions and asking your child what they think.
Encourage your child to relate the king’s experience to their own by discussing a time they resisted sleep and the outcome.
Ask your child to imagine different endings to the story based on different decisions characters might have made.
Highlight the humorous aspects of the story and discuss with your child why certain parts are funny, reinforcing the enjoyment of reading.
Use the story as an opportunity to discuss the significance of sleep in daily life and link it to the healthy habits you observe at home.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of persistence
Explanation: In the story, the advisor keeps trying different ways to get the king to sleep, demonstrating persistence.
Real-World Application: Children learn that perseverance is key to solving problems and achieving goals. They can apply this to their schoolwork, friendships, and hobbies.
Example Lesson: Creative problem-solving
Explanation: The advisor uses various inventive methods to help the king sleep, showing that sometimes unconventional methods are necessary.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to think outside the box and use creativity to tackle challenges, whether it’s a difficult puzzle, a new game, or any personal conflict.
Example Lesson: The value of patience
Explanation: The story demonstrates that patience is crucial, as the advisor does not give up despite numerous failed attempts.
Real-World Application: Learning to wait patiently and keep trying can help children in situations such as waiting their turn, mastering a new skill, or dealing with delays.
Example Lesson: Understanding different perspectives
Explanation: The story highlights the king's unique problem, which helps in recognizing that everyone has different needs and challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to empathize with others' feelings and viewpoints, which can enhance their social interactions and friendships.