Collected Resources

The Old Man and the Magic Bowl 

This is a traditional tale from India. In this fascinating story, read how the goddess Parvati helps a poor family and punishes a wicked king. This text is suitable for more children who have begun to confidently read independently, or earlier readers with support.

Icarus

This is a simple re-telling of the Greek myth of Icarus. In this tale Icarus and his father Daedalus build marvellous wings to escape from their prison but as they escape Icarus flies too close to the sun. The simple but engaging illustrations with the story will help bring it alive to children experiencing this traditional myth for the first time.

Icarus Hamilton Group Reader

This is a simple re-telling of the Greek myth of Icarus. In this tale Icarus and his father Daedalus build marvellous wings to escape from their prison but as they escape Icarus flies too close to the sun. The simple but engaging illustrations with the story will help bring it alive to children experiencing this traditional myth for the first time.

Diary of a Lively Labrador
Diary of a Lively Labrador, by Ruth Merttens, uses the recount form of a traditional diary to tell the story of a Labrador who enlists an unlikely accomplice to help him get back into his mistress’s good books after a prolonged period of bad behaviour. The narrative is lively and humorous and children of 7 and over who are not necessarily wholly confident readers will find it easily accessible.

Purple is best

This is a book about colours and dyes. How did people dye their clothes in ancient Egypt? In Roman times?  What plants make good dyes?  Which dye was more expensive than gold? Children read this book, seeing the colours as they go.  

The Christmas story

This text provides a version of the traditional biblical story of Christmas but told through the medium of letters.  The beautiful colour illustrations add to its appeal, and children can be motivated to write their own letters in response.