The Green Ship: questions to ask and activities to try
Two children discover a ship made of bushes in the garden next door. The Green Ship is Quentin Blake's tale of imaginary voyages and friendship across generations.
What age is it for? The Green Ship is best for ages 4–8. Good for: Imaginary voyages, and an unlikely friendship.
The Green Ship (Quentin Blake)
- Age
- 4-8
- Best for
- Imaginary voyages, and an unlikely friendship
Read it, then go outside and turn a hedge, tree or climbing frame into a ship.
What it helps with
- Imaginative play outdoors
- Friendship with older people
- Change over time
- Adventure
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “What did the children find?”
- “Who was Mrs Tredegar?”
- “Where did they sail?”
- “What happened over the years?”
- “How did things change?”
- “What would you turn into a ship?”
5-minute activities to try together
Garden ship
Turn part of the garden or park into a ship and plan a voyage.
Captain's log
Write a captain's log for your imaginary voyage.
Free printables: The Green Ship worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
Free. We’ll only email you if you tick the box.
If your child liked this, try
The Pirate Tree (Brigita Orel and Jennie Poh)
- Best for
- Making friends with someone new through play
- Age
- 3-7
Mister Magnolia (Quentin Blake)
- Best for
- Rhyme, silliness and wanting something you don't have
- Age
- 3-7
Captain Toby (Satoshi Kitamura)
- Best for
- A stormy night, and an imaginary sea adventure
- Age
- 3-7
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.