The Wide Window
#3 of 13 in A Series of Unfortunate Events
What’s inside...
The Baudelaire orphans are sent to live with their third guardian, Aunt Josephine, who lives in a house perched precariously on a cliff overlooking Lake Lachrymose. The children must once again outsmart Count Olaf, who is determined to steal their inheritance. Throughout this tale, the orphans face a hurricane, a signaling device, hungry leeches, cold cucumber soup, and a villainous plot involving a doll named Pretty Penny. This story, now a Netflix original series, is filled with misery and despair as the orphans navigate their unfortunate circumstances.
Character compass
Violet Baudelaire
Sunny Baudelaire
Klaus Baudelaire
Josephine Anwhistle
Count Olaf
Enormous Androgynous Person
Arthur Poe
Discussion points
What do you think Aunt Josephine was afraid of the most, and why?
How did the Baudelaire orphans work together to overcome the challenges they faced?
Why is it important to face our fears, just like the characters in the story?
What would you have done differently if you were in the Baudelaire children's situation?
How do you think the story would change if Aunt Josephine was brave from the beginning?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their ideas and feelings about the book by listening attentively and showing genuine interest in their thoughts. Ask them to imagine alternative scenarios and solutions to cultivate creativity and problem-solving skills. Relate the characters' experiences to real-life situations your child might encounter to help them apply the lessons learned from the book. Compliment your child’s insights to boost their confidence in expressing their opinions and ideas.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The Baudelaire orphans consistently face challenges and setbacks but continue to persevere and work together to overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persistence and perseverance even during difficult times, which can inspire them to tackle their own challenges.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the story, the orphans must use their intellect and reasoning to solve mysteries and protect themselves from Count Olaf's schemes.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of using thoughtful analysis and creativity to solve problems, which can be applied in their academic and social lives.
Example Lesson: The importance of family and loyalty
Explanation: Despite the absence of their parents, the siblings rely on each other and remain loyal throughout their hardships.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of supporting family members and the value of loyalty which fosters strong family bonds and friendships.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to change
Explanation: The Baudelaires are continually placed in new and unfamiliar environments but learn to adapt to survive.
Real-World Application: Promotes the ability to adjust to new situations and environments, an essential skill for personal and academic growth.
Example Lesson: Courage to stand up against wrongdoing
Explanation: The siblings often find themselves facing moral dilemmas and choose to do what is right, despite potential consequences.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to uphold integrity and justice, even when it is difficult, fostering moral development.