What would you do if a character from a painting came to life in your house?

This is a discussion prompt for The Giant by Nicholas Heller. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

What kind of painting would you want a character to come out of?

This is a discussion prompt for The Giant by Nicholas Heller. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Why do you think the giant came out of the painting?

This is a discussion prompt for The Giant by Nicholas Heller. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

What do you think the artist will say when Evan and the giant arrive?

This is a discussion prompt for The Giant by Nicholas Heller. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

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The Giant

Name: The Giant
ISBN: 9780688152253

by Nicholas Heller

When a giant steps out of a painting, young Evan joins her on a whimsical journey to find the artist and help her return to her painted home.

About This Book

When the giant in a painting in his grandmother's living room comes alive and walks out of the house, Evan goes with her to visit the artist and get the giant back into the painting.

Concepts

Curiosity & Wonder Creativity & Imagination Love & Family Resilience & Perseverance Friendship & Loyalty

Wonderlit Review

Nicholas Heller's "The Giant" presents a charming and imaginative premise perfect for young readers. The story begins in Evan's grandmother's living room, where a giant from a painting unexpectedly comes to life and walks out the door. Evan, driven by curiosity and a sense of responsibility, embarks on an adventure with the giant to locate the artist who created the painting, hoping to understand how to return the giant to its painted world. The narrative handles its fantastical element with a light touch, making it accessible and engaging without delving into complex explanations. The emotional arc is one of gentle wonder and mild adventure, starting with an intriguing magical event and progressing through a quest that is more whimsical than perilous. There are no sensitive topics to navigate, making it a safe and comforting read. This book is ideal for children who delight in imaginative play, have an interest in art, or simply enjoy stories where the ordinary meets the extraordinary in a friendly way. Parents might reach for this when their child is exploring creative expression, showing an interest in art, or seeking a cozy, magical read-aloud that sparks conversation about imagination. No specific preparation is needed for parents; the story is straightforward and enchanting. Younger children (ages 4-6) will be captivated by the simple magic of a giant coming to life and the journey itself, while older children (ages 7-11) might appreciate the underlying themes of art, creativity, and problem-solving. What sets this book apart is its unique blend of magical realism within an everyday setting, offering a fresh and gentle take on imaginative adventures for early readers and read-aloud audiences.