Book details
Colin Thompson - Author
This is a richly imagined picture book for looking closely and talking about big ideas. Its main appeal may be the living library, visual jokes and unusual book titles, alongside Peter's thoughtful search and final decision.
Book Analysis
Sign in to see how this book fits your child and family preferences.
Sign in for personalised guidanceHow the book presents it: The book presents this favourably.
Talk about: What does the story suggest Peter values more than obtaining the promised knowledge?
How the book presents it: The book presents this favourably.
Talk about: How do the library's many worlds affect the way you think about books?
It offers shared reading that can move between noticing illustrations and considering why Peter chooses not to read the supposedly life-changing book. The imaginative setting gives children plenty to revisit rather than a one-pass adventure.
Give time to the pictures and wordplay, including the invented titles scattered through the library. If the idea of living forever feels weighty, let the child set the pace and follow their questions.
What might Peter have been hoping to discover, and what do you think helped him decide? Which details make the library seem alive, and does the ending change how you view his choice?
Read it aloud slowly, pausing for illustration-spotting and invented titles. On a second look, revisit Peter's encounter with the Ancient Child and discuss the difference between finding an answer and choosing to use it.
Theme indicators describe how the book presents a topic; they are not a verdict on the whole book or your family's values. Confidence reflects how much book-specific material was checked. Only part of the book information was available, so some details remain unconfirmed.
Limited information
Checked: 19 September 2026.
Relevant to: Immortality and choosing wisely; Books as imaginative worlds
How to live forever by Colin Thompson | Open Library
Limited information
Checked: 19 September 2026.
Relevant to: Immortality and choosing wisely
Limited information
Checked: 19 September 2026.
Relevant to: Books as imaginative worlds
Benefits, discussion questions and reading approaches are suggestions. Your knowledge of your child remains part of the decision.
These links show the original reading lists. Inclusion is not a guarantee of suitability for your child.
Suitabook