1st & 2nd Grade Books > The Princess and the Rock

The Princess and the Rock

Written by: Ruth Calderon / Illustrated by: Alona Millgram / Publisher: Modan Publishing House

Distribution: May 2021

Is it possible to move a huge and heavy rock from the market square into the king’s palace? And how would you do it? This empowering tale about a big problem and a creative princess is inspired by a story from Rabbi Nachman of Breslov.

Family Activities

The princess in this story is searching for a solution to a riddle, and finds it in a surprising place. Not among the esteemed advisors who came from all corners of the world, but in the palace kitchen, an idea for a solution comes to mind. Thus, creative thinking is presented to us readers: for ...

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Classroom Activities

The Princess and the Rock

Written by: Ruth Calderon

Illustrated by: Alona Millgram

 

Dear Parents,

 

The princess in this story is searching for a solution to a riddle, and finds it in a surprising place. Not among the esteemed advisors who came from all corners of the world, but in the palace kitchen, an idea for a solution comes to mind. Thus, creative thinking is presented to us readers: for the answers are not always found where we would expect them, but in our ability to be inspired and connect different areas. This tale takes place in an imaginary realm; however, we can still learn from it about seeking solutions, as well as creative and independent thinking that examines reality with alertness and joyful learning. Such learning can take place anywhere, anytime. It depends solely on our ability to open our eyes and hearts, and allow our wisdom to develop, as the Book pf Proverbs says:

For wisdom shall enter into your heart, and knowledge shall be pleasant for your soul

[Proverbs 2:10]

Reading together, experiencing together

Reading and Discussing

פעילות בחיק המשפחה

  • Reading and Discussing You may want to tell one another some riddles you know, or share how you have found solutions to problems, situations and issues. Have you ever learned something by watching someone else? Perhaps you could ask other members of your family how they cope with riddle- and problem-solving. Together, you can create a collection of family suggestions to learn about and engage in problem-solving.
  • What do the illustrations tell us? The illustrations in this book are extremely detailed. You may enjoy taking a close look at them, and telling one another what else they convey, beyond the text: Are any characters featured in them that are not described in the story itself? Perhaps you could follow the tiger character, and tell the story from its perspective: What is the relationship between the tiger and princess? Why does it follow her, and how does it experience the events that unfold?
  • Inspired by folktales Authoress Ruth Calderon was inspired by an ancient folktale written by Rabbi Nachman of Breslov when she wrote this book. You could try it too! Think back to your favorite folktale or fairytale, and write a similar story about a contemporary boy or girl.
  • Comfort food Do you also have a "ma'atzube" of your own – some kind of favorite comfort food? How about making a list of comfort foods, and then cooking or baking one together?
  • Problem-solving "… Problems are just like bread – you need to slice them": You may want to create a collection of everyday problems, and write them on pieces of paper. In each round, pick one note, and think of solutions together. They can be incremental, broken down into stages like slices of bread. Perhaps they can lead you to more suggestions.

רעיונות לשילוב הספר בגן

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