Quick Summary: The Borrowers is a charming series about tiny little people who live in the walls of our homes, borrowing what they need from the “big people” to survive, and showcases their adventurous lives and quests for safety and belonging.
The Borrowers In Order
The Borrowers series, created by Mary Norton, is composed of several whimsical tales that follow the adventures of the Clock family, who are tiny beings living secretly in the nooks and crannies of a human household. Here is a list of the books in the series in the order they were published:
- The Borrowers (1952)
- The Borrowers Afield (1955)
- The Borrowers Afield (1958)
- The Borrowers Aloft (1961)
- The Borrowers Avenged (1982)
Each book captures a different chapter of the Clock family’s life as they navigate the challenges of living in a world designed for larger beings. The stories are filled with excitement and often feature new characters, challenges, and settings leading to delightful and engaging storytelling experiences.
The Borrowers Summary
The series begins with the introduction of the Clock family, who consists of Pod, Homily, and their daughter Arrietty. They adopt a lifestyle of borrowing, which allows them to survive without being detected by humans. This setup introduces readers to the charming yet precarious world of tiny living. As they journey through their home in search of supplies, they face various dilemmas that come with their small size.
In the first book, we see Arrietty’s first adventure outside of her home, where she meets a human boy named Jim. Their unlikely friendship develops, and the book themes focus on trust, adventure, and understanding different perspectives.
Subsequent books continue to build on the narrative. In The Borrowers Afield, the Clock family is forced to leave their home, leading them to new locations filled with more adventures. Each book explores different themes, from family bonds to the effects of change, and importantly, how our perspectives shift when faced with new challenges.
In The Borrowers Aloft, they undertake a journey into the skies in an abandoned hot air balloon, symbolizing their quest for freedom and adventure. This book stands out for its imaginative exploration of a world beyond the walls.
In The Borrowers Avenged, the narrative culminates in a tense confrontation with humans that forces the Clock family to face their fears and take a stand for their survival, adding depth to the series.
Through these narratives, Mary Norton captures the imagination of young readers while also imparting important life lessons. The Clock family’s resourcefulness and courage serve as a model for readers, demonstrating the value of creativity in overcoming obstacles.
Lessons From The Borrowers
Lesson 1: The Importance of Resourcefulness
The Borrowers teaches us about the significance of being resourceful. The Clock family demonstrates this trait by using whatever they find to craft their lives. They make a home from things like matchboxes and use paper clips for various purposes, showcasing how creativity can lead to solutions when faced with adversity.
This resourcefulness is a vital skill in life. As children navigate their own challenges, they learn that thinking outside the box can help them overcome obstacles. It encourages problem-solving skills and an innovative way of thinking that is useful in any situation.
Lesson 2: The Value of Friendship
Another key theme in The Borrowers is the value of friendship and community. The relationship between Arrietty and Jim exemplifies how friendships can develop across differences. Their connection represents acceptance and understanding, even when societal norms dictate otherwise.
Through their friendship, children are taught the importance of reaching across social divides and valuing relationships, regardless of size, species, or life experiences. This lesson encourages empathy and compassion, traits that help in forming meaningful relationships.
Lesson 3: Standing Up for Yourself
The books also explore themes of bravery and standing up for oneself. The Clock family often faces dangers from humans, and each family member shows resilience and courage in various situations. By facing their fears and banding together, they find strength in unity.
This lesson teaches children about the importance of standing up for what is right and protecting themselves and their loved ones in difficult times. It instills a sense of bravery that empowers young readers to face their own fears and challenges.
The Borrowers Review
The Borrowers series is a delightful mix of adventure, imagination, and life lessons. Mary Norton’s writing is endearing and engaging, drawing readers into the secretive lives of the Clock family. Each book holds a special charm that both captivates and educates young readers.
Readers appreciate the lovable characters who exhibit resilience and creativity. The imaginative scenarios allow children to ponder what it would be like to be tiny in a world built for giants. The storytelling is filled with delightful moments that encourage laughter and excitement, marking a compelling read for both children and adults alike.
Critics also commend the series for its rich vocabulary, which introduces young readers to new words in a fun and meaningful context. The stories challenge readers to think critically and engage their imagination, making them a staple in children’s literature.
Who Would I Recommend The Borrowers To?
The Borrowers is ideal for children aged 8-12 who enjoy imaginative tales full of adventure and excitement. It resonates well with young readers who appreciate stories about friendship, bravery, and resourcefulness. Additionally, this series serves as a fantastic read-aloud option for families looking to enjoy a heartwarming story together.
Moreover, educators and parents seeking to introduce themes of creativity and problem-solving to their children will find this series useful. The engaging characters and enchanting plots make it suitable for both individual reading and group discussions.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, The Borrowers is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of readers for decades. With its adventurous narratives, rich life lessons, and unforgettable characters, it serves as an excellent exploration of resilience and creativity in the journey of life.
For those interested in broadening their reading list, consider exploring related topics like The Inflatables Book Series or Acts 5:5. Each offers unique stories that inspire and engage the mind!