The Smartest Giant in Town: questions to ask and activities to try
George the giant buys smart new clothes, then gives each piece away to an animal who needs it. The Smartest Giant in Town makes kindness concrete: giving something up so someone else is better off.
What age is it for? The Smartest Giant in Town is best for ages 3–6. Good for: Kindness, generosity and giving to others.
The Smartest Giant in Town (Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler)
- Age
- 3-6
- Best for
- Kindness, generosity and giving to others
Ask why George gave his new clothes away, and how he felt at the end in his old ones. It's a good way to talk about generosity that costs you something, and why it's worth it.
What it helps with
- Kindness and generosity
- Helping others in need
- Feeling good by giving
- What matters more than looking smart
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.
- “Why did George give his new clothes away?”
- “How did each animal feel when George helped?”
- “How did George feel at the end?”
- “What could you give to help someone?”
- “Is it hard to give away something you like?”
- “What made George the kindest giant, not just the smartest?”
5-minute activities to try together
Choose something to give
Choose one toy or book together to give to someone who would enjoy it.
Kindness chart
For one week, notice one kind thing each person in the family does, and draw a star for each.
Free printables: The Smartest Giant in Town 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.
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If your child liked this, try
Room on the Broom (Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler)
- Best for
- Making room for others, and friends who stick together
- Age
- 3-6
The Invisible Boy (Trudy Ludwig)
- Best for
- Friendship, exclusion, quieter children and inclusion
- Age
- 5-8
A Friend for Henry (Jenn Bailey)
- Best for
- Autism, friendship and sensory/social differences
- Age
- 4-8
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 1 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.