Jack and the Beanstalk
By Mara Alperin
A magic beanstalk leads Jack to a treasure-filled castle — and a very hungry giant.
Pageticker community rating
Average score: 4.75
From 20 readers
What do our readers think of Jack and the Beanstalk? (Generated from the text of reviews of the book)
Children enjoy the bright pictures, magical adventure and exciting escape, and they find the simple words easy to follow. Some children find the giant a little frightening, but the story's humour and happy ending help make it feel safe.
What does the Pageticker team say about Jack and the Beanstalk?
Mara Alperin gives this classic tale a bright, brisk makeover, with simple storytelling, lively repetition and plenty of cloud-high adventure. Mark Chambers's colourful illustrations keep the giant more mischievous than monstrous, though very sensitive children may still prefer a daytime reading.
Genres
What is Jack and the Beanstalk about?
Jack and his mother are very poor. When Jack trades their cow for five magic beans, his mother is furious and throws them out the window. Overnight, a gigantic beanstalk grows, reaching into the clouds. Jack climbs it and discovers a giant's castle filled with treasures. But the giant likes to eat little boys! How will Jack ever escape?
About the author
Mara Alperin is a talented author who loves writing magical and exciting stories for children. She is best known for her charming retellings of classic fairy tales, such as 'The Little Red Hen' and 'Goldilocks and the Three Bears.' Mara enjoys making reading fun for everyone, inspiring children to use their imaginations and discover new adventures.
Discussion ideas around Jack and the Beanstalk
A Risky Trade: Why do you think Jack swaps the cow for magic beans, and what would you do in his place?
Brave or Foolish?: Jack climbs the beanstalk even though he does not know what is at the top. What makes his choice brave, and what makes it risky?
The Giant's Castle: Which part of the giant's castle would you most like to explore, and which part would make you nervous?
Making Things Right: Jack's family is poor at the beginning of the story. How do the magic beans change their lives, and what does Jack learn along the way?
Pages
32 pages
Reading age
Picture Book (2-7)
This edition
2014
First published
2014
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