In my opinion of the best films released this summer was Swallows and Amazons, we all loved this film and thought that it was a brilliant adaptation of the original book for todays children. Puffin have re-published the original classic children’s book with a cover image taken from the film. Hopefully this will inspire a new generation of children to read the story and enjoy one of myself and my husbands favourite books.
Swallows and Amazons tells the story of 2 families children’s adventures in the Lake District during the summer of 1929. Its a story of adventure, daring, the outdoors, friendship and perseverance. Having re-read it, i’d suggest that some of it might be a little bit dated for today’s technology focussed children and the language is definitely a little bit more challenging than what they are used to- rather like John Masefield’s Box of Delights which is a challenging read for this age group now but was perfectly acceptable 30 years ago when I read it.
However, for those children that do ‘get it’ and enjoy it, this is a brilliant read and the entry point into a series of books for them to enjoy. It is a childhood classic and I think if you can encourage your child to read it they will benefit. The modern updated cover will certainly help with this.
I just want to go on holiday to the Lake District now- I wonder if bookings are up on the back of the film and book?
If you want to find out more have a look here.
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