SuitabookAfter the Fall (How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again
Dan Santat
- Reading
- Read the pictures closely as well as the words: pause over Humpty’s expressions, the paper-aircraft attempts and the changing viewpoints. Afterwards, acknowledge that trying again can help, but nobody must rush recovery.
- Themes
- Recovery after an accident: Humpty’s fall affects his confidence and stops him enjoying heights and birdwatching; he later moves towards the wall again. The story presents persistence and renewed activity positively, while the recovery arc can be read as valuing self-directed effort.
- Mistakes and identity: Humpty does not want to be known only for falling and seeks to be recognised for getting back up. The narrative supports the idea that one accident need not become a person’s whole identity.
- Worth knowing
- The fall, Humpty’s fear of heights, his inability to pursue birdwatching, and references to being reassembled may merit gentle attention.