The Woodcutter and the Snow Prince
What’s inside...
Every Christmas Eve, a lonely woodcutter named Kai carves statues for anyone who might pass by. But one magical night, his loneliness is soothed by a visit from the snow prince. Feared by many, Kai sees hope in the prince’s eyes, but as the prince freezes once more, imprisoned in his ice-palace, can Kai break the curse? Another spectacular story from the king of inclusive fairy tales, Ian Eagleton. An exciting adventure in the ice, to warm the coldest of hearts.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the Woodcutter felt when he first met the Snow Prince, and why?
What lessons can we learn from the way the Woodcutter and the Snow Prince treated each other?
If you were in the Snow Prince's place, would you have done anything differently? Why or why not?
What does the story tell us about the importance of kindness and friendship?
How do you think the story would change if it took place in a different season, like summer?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the characters and the storyline. Use follow-up questions to delve deeper into their thoughts and responses. Highlight the moral lessons embedded in the story, such as the value of kindness and the impact of friendship. Connect the themes of the story to real-life situations your child might encounter, enhancing their empathy and understanding. Lastly, at the end of the discussion, ask your child how they might apply what they've learned from the story in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: In the story, the Woodcutter shows kindness and understanding towards the Snow Prince's unique situation, despite their differences.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and consider the feelings of others, fostering a nurturing environment at home and in school.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The Woodcutter faces numerous challenges in helping the Snow Prince but remains determined to assist him.
Real-World Application: This instills a sense of resilience in children, encouraging them to persist in the face of difficulties in their academic and personal endeavors.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: The mutual support between the Woodcutter and the Snow Prince highlights the importance and strength of true friendship.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of building and maintaining positive relationships, which is essential for emotional and social growth.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Both characters display bravery throughout their journey, particularly when confronting the challenges posed by their environment.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of facing fears and the benefits of stepping out of their comfort zones.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The setting of the story in a winter woodland emphasizes a respect and awe for the natural world.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to appreciate and care for their natural surroundings, promoting environmentally responsible behaviors from a young age.