on Goodreads (22)
What’s inside...
In each story in this series, a fictional character's personal account allows the reader to view dramatic events at close range. This title tells the dramatic events of the Battle of Waterloo from the perspective of an infantryman.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
160 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke Of Wellington
Gebhard Leberecht Von BlüCher
Michel Ney
Napoleon Bonaparte
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the soldiers to keep fighting in the battle?
How do you feel about the leadership shown by the characters? Would you have done anything differently?
What role do you think teamwork played in the battle's outcome?
Can you think of a time when you had to work hard to overcome a challenge? How does it compare to the challenges faced in 'Waterloo'?
What have you learned about the historical period of the battle after reading this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the battle and its characters, creating a safe space for them to share any thoughts or concerns.
Discuss the historical context of the battle before diving into the book’s specifics to provide a well-rounded understanding.
Ask your child to draw parallels between the teamwork in the book and instances in their own life where collaboration was key.
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they would feel in the characters' situations, fostering a deeper connection to the material.
Use praise to reinforce your child's insights and connections made from the book to boost their confidence and engagement.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage under pressure
Explanation: In 'Waterloo,' characters are depicted facing challenging situations that test their bravery. Their ability to stay calm and act wisely despite the chaos around them serves as a stellar example of courage.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this when they face difficult or intimidating situations at school or in social settings. Understanding the value of courage can help them act bravely and make wise decisions, even when they are afraid.
Example Lesson: The importance of strategic thinking
Explanation: The book highlights the strategic moves made by commanders during the Battle of Waterloo. It emphasizes the critical role of well-thought-out plans and tactics in achieving success.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in problem-solving tasks in school or in games where strategic planning is required. It teaches children to think ahead and consider the consequences of their actions.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: Throughout 'Waterloo,' the allied forces must work together cohesively to overcome the enemy. The story showcases how cooperation and collaboration are essential for the success of any group endeavor.
Real-World Application: In group projects or team sports, children can emulate the teamwork displayed in the book, learning that success often comes from working effectively with others, sharing tasks, and supporting each other.
Example Lesson: Learning from history
Explanation: By exploring historical events like the Battle of Waterloo, the book allows children to learn about significant past events that have shaped the world. It prompts reflection on the causes and effects of those events.
Real-World Application: Children can develop a better understanding of the world and its history, leading to greater empathy and awareness of different cultures and the events that have shaped societal norms and beliefs.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The characters in 'Waterloo' demonstrate resilience, persevering despite setbacks and losses. This resilience is a crucial theme, showing that perseverance can lead to eventual success or peace.
Real-World Application: Children learn to remain resilient in face of personal challenges, be it academic difficulties, loss, or changes in their environment. Understanding resilience can foster a more robust approach to personal adversity and setbacks.