A Writing Root for The Wind in the Wall

Outcomes:

Horror film poster, figurative writing, character/setting descriptions, old English letter, dialogue

Main Outcome:

Extended Gothic narrative

Length:

15 session, 3 weeks

Overview and Outcomes:

This is a three-week Writing Root for The Wind in the Wall in which children will build toward writing an extended spooky narrative within the Gothic horror tradition. Children will learn about some of the famous titles in this genre and explore their features. They will then practise these features in turn, writing setting/character descriptions, letters and dialogue using a wide range of skills. Children will use the bare-bones shape of this story to create their own gothic horror story.

Synopsis of Text:

Set in the hot houses of a stately home in eighteenth century England, a gardener falls from grace when the Duke sets him the impossible task of growing prize pineapples fit to show off in high society.  The gardener's star falls further when he is replaced by Mr Amicus, a pineapple 'specialist', whom he believes to be a charlatan and a trickster - but nevertheless miraculously produces fruit to delight the Duke.  Determined to uncover Mr Amicus's tricks, the gardener sneaks into the pineapple house to uncover the mysterious shrouded birdcage Mr Amicus carries with him. And what he finds changes his life for ever . . .  A cautionary tale with echoes of myth and fairy tale, this bewitching fable will make you careful what you wish for.

Text Rationale:

This is an enchanting picture book for older readers which will grip children with its mysterious happenings and gothic, other-worldly feel.  With its foundations its mythical folklore and traditional tales, the story is told in lyrical prose which will captivate children with its rich language and provide a basis for their own writing. Stunning illustrations in a muted colour palette contribute to the ethereal atmosphere and children will gain confidence in making inferences from images to enhance their understanding of the text. 

Links and Themes:

Gothic, horror, cautionary tales, mystery, temptation, freedom

Content Advisory:

This book contains a paragraph with a description of nudity and a sexual reference, which can be omitted without affecting the Writing Root content. Please use teacher discretion before choosing to teach this text.

Date written: August 2021