The Iron Man

What do our readers think of The Iron Man? (Generated from the text of reviews of the book)

Children enjoy the suspense, vivid descriptions and the feeling of seeing the adventure through Hogarth’s eyes. Some children find the story a little short or the language and storyline unusual, especially compared with the film.

What does the Pageticker team say about The Iron Man?

The Iron Man is a brilliantly strange collision of fairy tale, science fiction and colossal scrap metal mayhem. Ted Hughes gives the story a powerful, poetic rhythm, whilst Hogarth’s courage and cleverness keep its enormous ideas grounded in a child’s world. Some scenes are dark and intense, but confident readers aged around 8 and up should relish this short, unforgettable adventure.

Genres

What is The Iron Man about?

A colossal metal man mysteriously appears, devouring farm machinery and alarming the local community. Young Hogarth befriends the Iron Man and leads him to a scrap yard to satisfy his hunger. When a monstrous space dragon threatens Earth, the Iron Man challenges it to a test of endurance, ultimately saving the planet and bringing peace to humanity.

About the author

Ted Hughes was a famous British poet and author who loved nature and animals. He wrote exciting stories and poems that often featured wild creatures and the countryside. One of his most well-known books is 'The Iron Man', a thrilling tale about a mysterious metal giant. Ted Hughes’s writing helps readers see the magic in the world around them.

Discussion ideas around The Iron Man

Monster or Friend?: Why do the villagers see the Iron Man as a threat, while Hogarth chooses to understand him? What does this suggest about judging someone who seems frightening or unfamiliar?

Hogarth’s Clever Ideas: Which of Hogarth’s decisions makes the biggest difference in the story, and what does it show about his character?

Power and Responsibility: The Iron Man has enormous strength, but he does not use it in the same way throughout the story. What should powerful characters be responsible for?

War and Peace: How does the story change when humans stop fighting the Iron Man and begin to work with him? What might Hughes be saying about solving conflicts?

A Very Strange Hero: What makes the Iron Man an unusual hero, and do you think a hero needs to be human to show kindness or courage?