What makes Willoughby and Will good friends?

This is a discussion prompt for Will's Quill or, How a Goose Saved Shakespeare by Don Freeman. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

How did Willoughby help Will? What are some ways you like to help your friends?

This is a discussion prompt for Will's Quill or, How a Goose Saved Shakespeare by Don Freeman. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

What do you think it was like to live in London a long, long time ago?

This is a discussion prompt for Will's Quill or, How a Goose Saved Shakespeare by Don Freeman. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

If you could give a special gift to help someone create something wonderful, what would it be?

This is a discussion prompt for Will's Quill or, How a Goose Saved Shakespeare by Don Freeman. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

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Will's Quill or, How a Goose Saved Shakespeare

Name: Will's Quill or, How a Goose Saved Shakespeare
ISBN: 9780140502152

by Don Freeman

In this classic tale, Willoughby Waddles, a friendly goose, travels to Elizabethan London and forms an unlikely friendship with a struggling playwright named Will. Willoughby's unique contribution hel

About This Book

Don Freeman's "Will's Quill" introduces young readers to Willoughby Waddles, a charming goose who finds himself in 16th-century London. There, he encounters a budding playwright, William Shakespeare, who is in need of inspiration and, more practically, quills. Willoughby's generosity and friendship become central to Shakespeare's success, offering a gentle, imaginative introduction to a historical figure and the power of collaboration. This heartwarming story is perfect for children aged 4-8, fostering discussions about kindness, creativity, and the joy of helping others.

A goose named Willoughby visits London, meets a friendly actor-playwright named Shakespeare, and helps make literary history.

Concepts

Friendship & Loyalty Creativity & Imagination Empathy & Kindness Self-Confidence & Identity Joy & Gratitude Resilience & Perseverance Making Friends Animals History Friendship & Social

Wonderlit Review

Will's Quill by Don Freeman is a delightful and imaginative historical fiction picture book that gently introduces young readers to William Shakespeare and the creative process. The story centers on Willoughby Waddles, a kind-hearted goose who journeys to Elizabethan London. There, he encounters a struggling young playwright named Will, who is having trouble finding inspiration and the right tools for writing. Willoughby, with his generous spirit, offers his own feathers to serve as quills, becoming an unexpected muse and friend to Shakespeare. The book handles its historical setting and the concept of a talking animal with a light, whimsical touch, making it accessible and engaging for its target audience. There are no sensitive topics or difficult themes; the emotional arc is consistently heartwarming and uplifting, celebrating friendship, kindness, and the joy of creative collaboration. This book is ideal for children aged 4-8, particularly those who enjoy animal stories, historical settings, or tales of friendship. It's a wonderful choice for parents looking to introduce concepts of history, literature, or the arts in a gentle, non-intimidating way. A parent might reach for this book when their child is curious about history, famous people, or simply needs a comforting story about helping others. No specific parent preparation is needed, though a brief introduction to who Shakespeare was could enhance the experience for older children. Younger children will simply enjoy the charming story of a goose and his human friend, while older children might appreciate the historical context more deeply. Its unique blend of animal fantasy with a historical figure sets it apart from typical historical fiction, making it a memorable and charming read.