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The Smartest Giant in Town

By Julia Donaldson

Smart new clothes transform George - but why is he giving them all away?

heart-warming funny charming uplifting

Pageticker community rating

Average score: 4.72

From 192 readers

What do our readers think of The Smartest Giant in Town? (Generated from the text of reviews of the book)

Children enjoy the funny rhymes, colourful pictures and warm message about kindness, and many want to hear the story again. Some younger children find it a little long or lose interest before the end.

What does the Pageticker team say about The Smartest Giant in Town?

We love the lively rhyme, memorable refrain and Axel Scheffler’s richly detailed illustrations, which make George’s journey especially enjoyable to share aloud. This warm, funny story explores kindness, generosity and the difference between looking smart and being thoughtful.

Genres

Animals Friendship/Family Feelings/Wellbeing

What is The Smartest Giant in Town about?

George is the scruffiest giant in town, but when he buys some smart new clothes, he feels like a brand new giant! On his way home, George meets animals in need and kindly gives away his clothes to help them. Will he end up with nothing to wear? This heart-warming tale shows that kindness is always in style.

About the author

Julia Donaldson is a much-loved British author who has written many wonderful books for children. She is best known for creating 'The Gruffalo', a story about a clever mouse and a magical creature. Julia often works with illustrator Axel Scheffler to bring her fun and imaginative stories to life.

Discussion ideas around The Smartest Giant in Town

What makes George special?: George wants to look smart at the beginning, but what makes him truly special by the end of the story?

Kindness and sharing: Why does George give his new clothes to the animals, and how do his choices make you feel?

A new use for old things: George’s clothes become useful in surprising ways. What everyday object could you use for a different purpose?

Looking beyond appearances: What can we learn about someone by looking at their clothes, and what might we miss if we judge them by their appearance?

Helping others wisely: How can we be kind and helpful while also making sure that we look after ourselves?

Pages

32 pages

Reading age

Picture Book (2-7)

This edition

2016

First published

2002

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