A Cat for Ted: The Adventures of an Extraordinary Cat Named Papi
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Sometimes you look for a cat and other times the cat finds you. This is a story about an extraordinary cat who both entertains and comforts a whole neighborhood of people including the humans and pets he lives with. The story of Papi and his actions will make you laugh and cry. Sometimes even cats need to deal with hard situations. In the pages of Papi's adventures, the reader will learn a lesson or two from a cat who pounces, plays games and often lies next to his dog friend Biscotti.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-10
Length
29 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes Papi an extraordinary cat?
How do you think Ted felt when he first met Papi?
Can you imagine a day in your life with Papi? What adventures would you go on?
What is the most important lesson Ted learned from his adventures with Papi?
If Papi could talk, what do you think he would say to Ted?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use facial expressions and voice modulation to mimic the characters, making the story come alive.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of Papi and Ted on one of their adventures, tapping into the child's creative interpretation.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next before turning the page, building anticipation and engagement.
After reading, connect the story to your child’s experiences by discussing similar feelings and adventures they’ve had.
Pause occasionally to ask your child how they think a character is feeling, reinforcing empathy and emotional understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: Throughout the story, Ted learns to understand and share the feelings of Papi, the cat. He recognizes Papi's needs and emotions, and responds with kindness.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy by noticing when someone is upset or has a need and offering their help or comfort, much like Ted does with Papi.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Ted takes on the responsibility of caring for Papi, learning to feed, groom, and ensure the cat’s well-being.
Real-World Application: This story can inspire children to take care of their pets or help around the house, understanding that their actions directly affect others’ lives.
Example Lesson: Courage and Resilience
Explanation: Ted faces various challenges in his adventures with Papi, but he shows courage and resilience in overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to face their own challenges, whether it’s trying something new or standing up for what is right, and learn they can overcome difficulties.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: The story highlights the growing friendship between Ted and Papi as they go on adventures together, showing how friendship can form between very different individuals.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to build strong relationships with others, respecting differences and finding common ground.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Ted and Papi encounter various problems during their adventures, which they solve using their ingenuity and teamwork.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to think critically and creatively when faced with problems, showing them the value of teamwork and cooperation.