Examples of Bildungsroman:

1. "Harry Potter" series by J.K. Rowling - These books tell the story of a young boy, Harry Potter, who starts off as an orphan living with his cruel aunt and uncle, but discovers he is actually a wizard. Each book covers a year of Harry's life at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where he learns about magic, forms deep friendships, and ultimately has to face and overcome his own fears and challenges.

2. "Anne of Green Gables" by L.M. Montgomery - This story is about Anne Shirley, an imaginative and talkative girl who is mistakenly sent to live with two elderly siblings, Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, who originally wanted to adopt a boy to help them on their farm. The book explores how Anne makes Avonlea her home, makes new friends, and grows up into a confident and caring young woman.

3. "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" by C.S. Lewis - Follows four siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy Pevensie—who are evacuated from London during WWII and sent to live in a big, old house in the countryside. They discover a magical wardrobe that leads to the land of Narnia. In Narnia, they go on a great adventure, learn about courage and loyalty, and grow from children into leaders.

Can you think of any examples from your own reading that feature bildungsroman?

What colours stand out on the page? What might these symbolise?

Font

What style of writing has been used? Why might the author / illustrator have picked writing like this?

Illustrations

What images can be seen? Do you think these are 'real' images or are they supposed to represent something else? Are they metaphors?

Layout

What has the author / illustrator wanted to draw our attention to first? How have they achieved this?

Why might they want their readers' eyes to go here?