The Wondrous Prune
on Goodreads (52)
What’s inside...
The Wondrous Prune follows eleven-year-old Prune Robinson as she navigates life in a new town with her single mother and troublesome older brother. Facing bullying and struggling with her unique ability to bring her drawings to life, Prune learns she can't hide her powers forever. As her brother's life is threatened, she realizes her powers may be the key to reuniting and saving her family. The book, intended to start a series about remarkable children, combines elements of magic, self-discovery, and family bonds.
Age
9-11
Length
123 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Prune Robinson
Doug
Mum
Jesse Robinson
Discussion points
What do you think Prune learned about friendship by the end of the book?
If you were Prune, how would you have handled the big challenge differently?
Why do you think the author chose a prune as the main character?
What parts of the story made you feel happy, sad, or excited?
How can we apply Prune’s lessons in our daily lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, ask your child what they think a story about a prune could be about. This sets a creative, anticipatory tone.
While reading, pause at key moments to ask your child how they think a character is feeling or might react. This fosters empathy and understanding.
After reading, relate the story to your child’s experiences by discussing similar situations they might have faced and how they dealt with them.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. Discussing their artwork can provide deeper insights into their interpretation.
Use expressions and voices for different characters to make the reading more engaging and to help differentiate the characters in the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Throughout 'The Wondrous Prune', Prune learns to understand and feel the emotions of others, particularly when her friends face various challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to recognize emotions in others and offering support or kindness, helping them to develop stronger, empathetic relationships.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Perseverance
Explanation: When faced with difficulties, Prune consistently tries and does not give up, which ultimately leads to her success.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence in achieving goals, whether in academics, sports, or personal projects.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Problem Solving
Explanation: Prune uses her imagination to come up with unique solutions to obstacles, demonstrating the power of creative thinking.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think outside the box and apply creative solutions to everyday problems, boosting their cognitive flexibility and innovation.
Example Lesson: Valuing Friendship
Explanation: Prune's adventures highlight the joys and importance of having friends and working together through various scenarios.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to value their friendships, collaborate, and resolve conflicts through communication and mutual respect.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face the Unknown
Explanation: Prune often steps into new experiences with bravery, showing readers that it's okay to be scared but also important to try new things.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children face new challenges such as moving to a new place or starting a new school with a positive attitude and courage.