Create your own dystopian world (and the character who defies it)
Old Bertie by Perrella and Osborn is set in a dystopian society where all aspects of life are strictly controlled. In this new teaching activity, students can create their own dystopian society and the main character who lives in it, to help students connect world-building and character.
Explore our free teaching notes for more classroom ideas, including discussion questions and creative writing activities.
Old Bertie is J.D. Salinger meets Taika Waititi, with a sprinkling of George Orwell. It asks readers to consider how much power a 15-year-old girl might wield in a world that demands complete compliance. With themes including identity and personal growth, bravery, community, culture, prejudice and marginalisation, Old Bertie is perfect for Y7–12 English classes.
