Grades 4-6
Gulliver’s Travels was one of the first
novels in history to spark the phenomenon now known as “fan fiction.” Today, we
find hundreds of novels, short stories, TV shows, and movies that give a
different perspective on some of our most famous works; for example, the Wicked
Witch of the West is secretly misunderstood—and also very musically
talented—Elizabeth Bennett becomes the next new zombie slayer, Joanna replaces
Katniss as the leader of the revolution against the Capitol, and, finally, the
untold story of what happens to Gulliver after he returns becomes a fight for
hope and freedom.
Lilliput contains many lessons within
its pages—the importance of hope and the preciousness of a single moment to
name a few—but perhaps its biggest takeaway is that imagination is limitless.
Not only does Lily, the main character, think of brilliant ways to return to
her home, but Sam Gayton, the author himself, also employs Lilly’s imaginative
mindset in deciding to create a sequel to the beloved classic, Gulliver’s Travels.
Imagination
is precious at all ages, but it is particularly important during one’s
adolescence. Lilliput provides an
avenue to discuss Gulliver’s Travels
and the events that take place after its conclusion, but it also serves as a
platform to discuss the untold stories behind novels that students already
love. After discussing Gulliver’s Travels
and reading Lilliput with your
class, ask your students how Lilliput has
changed their perspective on Gulliver’s
Travels, if at all. Then, spark another conversation about the student’s
favorite books; have they ever wondered if there was a different side to those
stories? After discussing the possibilities for a few moments, give your
students the freedom to write their own versions of those stories. They will
practice their writing skills, but more importantly, they will be challenged
creatively.
Click
here for the full summary of
Lilliput.