SuitabookThe Crowstarver
Dick King-Smith
- Reading
- Read together if the rural dialect or serious themes might be challenging. Pause to discuss Spider’s strengths without treating him as inspirational merely because he has a disability, and notice how animals and people are treated.
- Themes
- Difference and belonging: Spider is treated as different because of his speech, movement and abilities; his parents and some community members recognise his strengths. The story appears to value acceptance rather than mere tolerance, while showing prejudice as a social response Spider faces.
- Human–animal connection: Spider has an unusual affinity with animals, including farm and wild creatures, and works by scaring crows from growing crops. The book presents this favourably.
- Courage and loyalty: Spider is described as loyal to family, friends and village, with courage shown through staying true to himself rather than only through physical feats. The story appears to broaden courage beyond physical strength and to value loyalty and kindness in relationships.
- Worth knowing
- The book’s emotional weight comes from Spider’s disability, social prejudice, fragile health, foundling background, war, and references to birth and death. Some readers may want support discussing these subjects.