#1 in The Penderwicks Series
The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy
on Goodreads (61,001)
What’s inside...
With over one million copies sold, this series of modern classics about the charming Penderwick family from National Book Award winner and New York Times bestseller Jeanne Birdsall is perfect for fans of Noel Streatfeild and Edward Eager. This summer the Penderwick sisters have a wonderful surprise: a holiday on the grounds of a beautiful estate called Arundel. Soon they are busy discovering the summertime magic of Arundel's sprawling gardens, treasure-filled attic, tame rabbits, and the cook who makes the best gingerbread in Massachusetts. But the best discovery of all is Jeffrey Tifton, son of Arundel's owner, who quickly proves to be the perfect companion for their adventures. The icy-hearted Mrs. Tifton is not as pleased with the Penderwicks as Jeffrey is, though, and warns the new friends to stay out of trouble. Which, of course, they will-won't they? One thing's for sure: it will be a summer the Penderwicks will never forget. Deliciously nostalgic and quaintly witty, this is a story as breezy and carefree as a summer day.
Character compass
Discussion points
How do the different sisters in 'The Penderwicks' show their unique personalities? Which sister do you relate to the most and why?
The story takes place during summer. What changes or adventures do you think happen during this season that makes it special for the sisters?
Friendship is an important theme in the book. Can you talk about a scene where friendship helped solve a problem?
If you could give advice to any of the characters at the start of their summer adventure, what would it be?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in a different location, like a city or a snowy mountain?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion with lighter, open-ended questions to help your child express their basic thoughts and feelings about the book.
Encourage your child to compare their own experiences with those of the characters, deepening their connection to the story.
Discuss the different settings of the book and ask your child how these locations might influence the characters’ adventures or decisions.
Use examples from the book to explore the concept of teamwork and friendship, asking your child to provide real-life parallels.
Prompt your child to imagine alternative scenarios in the story, enhancing their critical thinking and creativity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of family and sibling support
Explanation: Throughout their adventures at Arundel estate, the Penderwick sisters demonstrate unwavering support and commitment to each other, showcasing the strength of family ties.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and rely on their family members, facing challenges together and supporting each other in everyday scenarios.
Example Lesson: Embracing individuality and acceptance
Explanation: Each Penderwick sister has a distinct personality and unique skills, and they learn to accept and celebrate these differences not only among themselves but also with new friends they make.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate diversity and be open to forming friendships with peers who may have different interests and personalities.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and teamwork
Explanation: The sisters often find themselves in tricky situations, but by working together and combining their individual strengths, they find creative solutions to their problems.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of collaborating with others to solve problems and achieve common goals in school projects or other team activities.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: Despite various obstacles, the Penderwick sisters maintain a positive outlook and adapt to changes, showing resilience throughout their summer adventures.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of staying positive and resilient in difficult times, whether dealing with changes in school or challenges in personal life.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature and adventure
Explanation: The story's setting in Arundel's beautiful estate with its gardens and wildlife highlights the sisters’ interaction and appreciation for nature, fostering a sense of adventure.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to explore the natural world responsibly and develop a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors.