Rapunzel

Last updated September 3, 2004

Author: Paul O. Zelinsky
Illustrator: Ed Young
Date of Publication: 1997
ISBN: 0525456074
Grade Level: 3rd
Date(s) Used: September 2004

Synopsis: We are frightened when the sorceress demands to take the baby Rapunzel, we are alarmed when the flowing locks are cruelly shorn, and we rejoice when the prince and his now modest-haired love are reunited.

Discussion topics for before reading:

• What is a fairy tale?  What is its purpose?
• What do you already know about this story by looking at the cover?
• What is it like to want something that you can’t have?
• Have you heard of the fairy tale about Rapunzel?
• What does it mean to be greedy?

Discussion topics for after reading:

• Why did the sorceress treat Rapunzel like that? Why do you think she took her?
• Would the mom have wanted the Rapunzel as much if she knew the consequences?
• What do you think Rapunzel wanted to do?

Craft ideas:

• Make a tower out of construction paper by making a tube and a cone, and decorate.
• Make a bookmark that looks like Rapunzel’s tower.

Special challenge:

• Plant a seed in a styrofoam cup of dirt and decorate the cup.

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don’t have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!