The Magic Bed
What’s inside...
The Magic Bed tells the story of a young boy named Georgie who receives an old bed that turns out to be magical. Each night, the bed takes him on fantastic adventures to different places and times, where he meets various characters and faces exciting challenges. When Georgie outgrows his baby bed, he chooses a big second-hand bed that the thrift-shop owner says is magic, and every night Georgie dreams of new adventures with tigers, gnomes, dolphins, or pirates. One day, Georgie and his family go on holiday, and when they come back, Granny has a big surprise for him.
Age
3-8
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Georgie
Discussion points
What would you do if you had a magic bed that could take you anywhere? Where would you go first?
How do you think Georgie felt when he discovered his bed was magic? Would you feel the same way?
Why is it important to be careful what you wish for, as shown in Georgie's adventures?
How did Georgie's adventures change the way he thought about bedtime?
What does this story teach us about the power of imagination?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to use their imagination by asking them to describe or draw their own magic bed and the adventures they would have.
Discuss the emotions of Georgie during different parts of the story to help your child understand and express their own feelings.
Connect the story to your child’s bedtime routine by discussing the importance of a good night’s sleep and how it can be a magical experience in its own way.
Use the adventures in the book to talk about consequences and the importance of making thoughtful decisions.
Highlight the fun and creativity in the story to make bedtime reading an enjoyable and anticipated time together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Imagination
Explanation: In 'The Magic Bed,' the protagonist's adventures beginning from a magical bed showcase the power of imagination. As he travels to different lands, it highlights how imagination can create wondrous experiences
Real-World Application: Children can use their creativity to solve problems, entertain themselves, and understand the world around them in innovative ways.
Example Lesson: Value of Responsibility
Explanation: As the protagonist embarks on journeys with the magic bed, he learns to take care of his magical possession and the importance of returning home safely.
Real-World Application: Children learn that while adventure is exciting, being responsible for one's belongings and well-being is equally crucial.
Example Lesson: Courage to Explore
Explanation: The character's willingness to explore unknown worlds demonstrates bravery. This shows children that it’s okay to step out of their comfort zones and explore new things.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be open to new experiences, whether it's trying new activities or making new friends.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Choices
Explanation: Each landing place and scenario in the story results from the protagonist's choices, teaching that decisions have impacts.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand that their choices affect themselves and others, reinforcing the need to think before acting.
Example Lesson: Learning from Experiences
Explanation: Throughout the book, the main character learns lessons from each land he visits, accumulating knowledge and wisdom from various experiences.
Real-World Application: Illustrates to children that every experience, be it good or bad, is an opportunity to learn and grow.