Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren has been translated into over 100 languages. It appeals to children from all over the world because it’s a story that taps directly into the chaotic, playful world of imagination. In this episode co-host Chloë helps to bring a child’s perspective to a delightful story which will never go out of style.
Activity: Write an Adventure for Your Imaginary Friend
If you, your children, or classmates had an imaginary friend, write out a description of that character, including appearance, personality traits, home life, and powers. Then imagine what would happen if that imaginary friend accompanied you on an ordinary day of your life. How would things be changed? Would anything wild or unexpected happen? How disruptive would the imaginary friend be, and what kind of trouble would that create?
Have students write their own story in the style of a chapter from Pippi Longstocking, then share the stories together.