The Scarecrow and His Servant
What’s inside...
Outrageously zany and filled with non-stop surprises, Simon Reade’s theatrical adaptation of The Scarecrow and His Servant, a children’s tale by renowned author Philip Pullman, is an enchanting play for young readers and performers. The story follows a tattered scarecrow who stands in the middle of a muddy field, enduring a violent thunderstorm. When a bolt of lightning strikes him, it brings him to life, setting off a series of whimsical adventures. A tattered scarecrow stands in the middle of a muddy field, taking no notice of the violent thunderstorm around him. But when a bolt of lightning strikes him, fizzing its way through his turnip head and down his broomstick, the Scarecrow blinks with surprise–and comes to life. So begins the story of the Scarecrow, a courteous but pea-brained fellow with grand ideas. He meets a boy, Jack, who becomes his faithful servant. Leaving behind his bird-scaring duties, the Scarecrow sets out for Spring Valley, with Jack at his side. As the valiant Scarecrow plunges them into terrifying dangers–battles, brigands, broken hearts, and treasure islands–he never realizes he’s being followed by the one family who desperately wishes he’d never sprung to life. Will the Scarecrow discover the secret to his past before the crooked Buffalonis close in on him?
Age
8-12
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The Scarecrow
Jack
Signor Buffaloni
Discussion points
What do you think the scarecrow represents in the story, and why do you think he needs a servant?
How do the scarecrow and his servant help each other grow throughout the book?
What are some ways the characters solve problems they encounter? Do you think these methods were effective?
How does the friendship between the scarecrow and his servant change from the beginning to the end of the story?
If you could give advice to one of the characters, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Pause at pivotal moments in the story to ask your child what they think might happen next and why.
Encourage your child to relate the adventures of the scarecrow and his servant to their own experiences with friends or tasks.
After reading, ask your child to draw a scene from the book they found memorable, discussing why it stood out to them.
Promote empathy by asking how your child feels about the challenges faced by the characters and how they might feel in similar situations.
Revisit the story after a few days and discuss any new insights your child may have about the plot or the characters.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of loyalty and friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, the bond between the Scarecrow and his servant deepens, showcasing how loyalty and trust can lead to deep friendships.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value and nurture their friendships, teaching them the importance of being loyal and supportive friends.
Example Lesson: The importance of courage and resourcefulness
Explanation: The characters frequently encounter challenges and adversaries, demonstrating how bravery and ingenuity can help overcome difficulties.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own challenges with courage and to think creatively to solve problems they encounter in daily life.
Example Lesson: The impact of kindness and compassion
Explanation: The protagonist shows compassion to others throughout the story, which results in positive outcomes and reciprocated feelings.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the benefits of being kind and helping others, promoting empathetic behavior in their interactions with both peers and adults.
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: Despite obstacles, the characters keep pushing forward, teaching the value of perseverance in achieving goals.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to not give up easily, motivating them to strive towards their goals despite difficulties.