A Home for Rascal (My Naughty Little Puppy)
#1 in My Naughty Little Puppy Series
on Goodreads (82)
What’s inside...
When Ellie names her puppy Rascal, she doesn't realize how fitting the name is. Ellie is excited when her family adopts a Jack Russell puppy, and she looks forward to playing games with the new pet. She hopes her older siblings will let her spend time with the puppy. This is the first book in Holly Webb's 'My Naughty Little Puppy' series.
Character compass
Ellie
Rascal
Ellie's Mother
Ellie'S Mom
Discussion points
How do you think Ellie felt when she first met Rascal? Can you relate to her emotions?
What are some ways Ellie shows responsibility for Rascal throughout the story?
Why is it important to take care of pets, and what are some responsibilities that come with it?
How did Ellie and Rascal’s relationship change from the beginning of the book to the end?
Can you think of a time when you had to be responsible for something like Ellie was for Rascal?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about each character, fostering empathy and understanding.
Discuss the importance of pet care and responsibility, linking it to everyday tasks that your child might experience.
Relate the storyline to personal experiences of your child to deepen the connection with the book’s themes.
Prompt your child to reflect on changes in the main character's feelings or relationships, enhancing their comprehension and narrative skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The story demonstrates the concept of responsibility as the main character learns to take care of her mischievous puppy, Rascal. She understands that having a pet requires commitment and caring, not just fun and games.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking care of their own pets, helping with household chores, or taking ownership of their assignments in school, learning that responsibility is an important aspect of daily life.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: As the central character tends to Rascal’s needs, she learns to understand and share the feelings of her puppy. This helps her connect more deeply with Rascal, responding appropriately to his feelings and behaviors.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice empathy by recognizing and respecting the feelings and needs of others around them, whether it be family, friends, or pets. This strengthens their social and emotional development.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the protagonist faces various challenges while managing Rascal's antics. Each experience provides an opportunity to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children can draw upon this when encountering their own challenges, understanding that problems can be approached systematically and solutions can be creative and effective.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: Despite the difficulties in managing Rascal’s behavior, the protagonist perseveres and continues to care for and train her puppy. Her determination showcases the importance of persistence.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persisting through difficult tasks or situations in their own life, highlighting that dedication can lead to rewarding outcomes.