The New Windmill Book of Stories from Around the World (New Windmills Collections Ks3)
The New windmill series
on Goodreads (20)
What’s inside...
A collection of stories from other cultures and traditions. The stories have been chosen for their suitability for GCSE pupils. Each one is supported by information about the author and the cultural context of the story, as well as activities and suggested coursework assignments.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
11-14
Length
224 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What story from the book was your favorite and why?
How do you think the characters felt during their adventures?
What did you learn about the cultures presented in the stories?
Can you imagine a different ending for any of the stories?
How would you feel if you were in a similar situation as one of the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Prior to discussing, read the story together or have your child read it aloud to improve comprehension.
Show genuine interest in their responses to encourage deeper thinking and connection to the story.
Relate the stories to your child’s own experiences to make the themes more relevant and personal.
Encourage your child to draw a scene from one of the stories as a creative way to express their understanding.
Ask your child to predict what happens next in a story before reading the ending, fostering their imagination and anticipation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: This anthology showcases diverse stories from various countries, exposing young readers to a wide range of cultural narratives and viewpoints.
Real-World Application: Children can develop respect and curiosity for cultures different from their own, fostering a more inclusive attitude in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Moral Reflection
Explanation: Each story in the collection often concludes with a moral, prompting readers to think about the consequences of actions and the values upheld by different societies.
Real-World Application: Kids can use these morals as guidelines for behavior, helping them make thoughtful decisions and develop a strong ethical compass.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Stories featuring characters from varied backgrounds enable readers to experience life from different perspectives, nurturing empathy and understanding.
Real-World Application: This empathy can translate into more compassionate interactions with peers, helping to build stronger, more understanding relationships.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving Skills
Explanation: Many stories include characters facing challenges or predicaments, which they must navigate or resolve.
Real-World Application: Children can apply similar problem-solving approaches when they face obstacles, enhancing their ability to think critically and creatively.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Storytelling
Explanation: Through its global collection of narratives, the book underscores the value and impact of storytelling in preserving culture and imparting lessons.
Real-World Application: Children can appreciate and partake in storytelling, improving their communication skills and understanding of the world.