Under the Greenwood Tree
Penguin Joint Venture Readers S. Series
on Goodreads (29)
What’s inside...
This package includes a dramatized excerpt from Shakespeare's 'As You Like It', designed to introduce young listeners to Shakespeare, and is accompanied by 16th century period music. It also includes a book authored by Claire Bloom and a cassette. Additionally, there is an illustrated collection of poetic excerpts from Shakespeare's plays and sonnets that follow the 'seven ages of man' pattern from childhood fantasy to old age.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
79 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Dick Dewy
Fancy Day
Mr. Shiner
Geoffrey Day
Reverend Maybold
Discussion points
What do you think the greenwood tree symbolizes in the story?
How do the characters' feelings change throughout the book?
What lessons can we learn about nature and its importance from the story?
If you were a character in the book, who would you choose to be and why?
How does the setting of the forest affect the story and the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters and the setting to life, which will help your child visualize the greenwood tree and its surroundings.
Discuss the emotions of the characters at different points in the book to help your child connect with and understand their journeys.
Encourage your child to imagine and perhaps draw their own version of the greenwood tree, discussing what it represents for them personally.
Relate the themes of the book to your child's experiences, such as times they've interacted with nature or felt similar emotions to the characters.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at several points in the book to engage their analytical thinking and imagination.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of community
Explanation: The story encapsulates the sense of togetherness and support shared among the villagers as they interact and celebrate seasons and events, demonstrating how vital a united community is.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of participating in family and community events, helping them build a sense of belonging and support.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The book's setting under the expansive, sheltering boughs of a Greenwood tree symbolically highlights the nurturing aspect of nature and teaches respect and appreciation for the natural environment.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take an active role in protecting their environment and to appreciate the outdoors through activities like planting trees and recycling.
Example Lesson: The beauty of simple living
Explanation: The characters in the story find joy and contentment in the simplicity of rural life, which underscores the beauty of leading a simple, uncluttered life.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to find happiness in simple pleasures like spending time with family or enjoying nature, rather than material possessions.
Example Lesson: Persistence and resilience
Explanation: The protagonist faces various challenges but remains steadfast and resilient, teaching the importance of perseverance in the face of difficulties.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that challenges are a part of life and that persistence can help them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
Example Lesson: Importance of traditions
Explanation: The story celebrates local traditions and festivities that strengthen community bonds and cultural heritage, showing how traditions connect us to our past and to each other.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and participate in cultural and family traditions, helping them connect with their community and heritage.