A Dog Called Doug (A Pig Called Pete)
What’s inside...
Ages 4 to 8 years. This book follows the adventures of Doug the Dog and Pete the Pig as they discover they can both fly. When Doug meets Kitty the Cat, they fly off in a hot air balloon, but soon find themselves in trouble. Through their journey, they learn the importance of having and sharing friends. Meanwhile, Pete is left behind when there is no room for him in the hot air balloon, but he learns that having friends is worth everything in the world. Pete and Kitty are about to have an adventure with a new friend named Doug. Like Pete, Doug can fly, and is ready for trips to places like Peru, Italy, and Australia. Pete's adventure is cut short because there is no room for him in the hot air balloon. Does Pete stay friends with Doug and Kitty even though they left him behind? Readers will learn along with Pete that having friends is worth everything in the world.
Discussion points
Why do you think Doug and Pete became friends?
What are some ways Doug showed kindness to Pete?
How did Doug and Pete solve problems together?
What was your favorite part of the story, and why?
If you were going to add another character to the story, who would it be and what would they do?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin by asking your child to describe their favorite scene; it will make them think about the story’s details and their personal preferences.
Encourage your child to think about the emotions of Doug and Pete by asking how they might feel in different situations throughout the book.
Discuss the moral lessons of the story and how they can be applied in real-life scenarios, helping your child make connections between the book and their own experiences.
Use expressive reading techniques such as changing your voice for different characters to make the story more engaging and to aid comprehension.
End with asking your child if there is anything they would change about the story, encouraging creative thinking and personal input.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness
Explanation: In 'A Dog Called Doug', Doug demonstrates kindness through his interactions with other characters, helping them whenever possible.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to be helpful and kind to their peers, which can foster a positive environment at home, in school, and in playgrounds.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Doug forms a friendship with Pete the pig, showing that friendships can cross traditional boundaries and enrich lives.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be open to forming friendships with those who might seem different from them, promoting inclusivity and understanding.
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: Doug faces various challenges but doesn’t give up, teaching children the virtue of persistence in achieving goals.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that challenges can be overcome with determination, applicable in their studies, sports, and personal pursuits.
Example Lesson: Learning to share
Explanation: Doug and Pete learn to share resources and take turns, a pivotal social skill.
Real-World Application: Instills the habit of sharing with siblings and friends which is crucial for harmonious interactions and collaborative play.
Example Lesson: Respect for all creatures
Explanation: Through Doug's respectful treatment of both smaller and larger animals, children learn to respect all living beings regardless of size or strength.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to treat pets and wildlife with respect and care, fostering a sense of responsibility towards nature.