A Piglet Called Truffle
#1 of 15 in Jasmine Green Series
What’s inside...
Jasmine’s dad is a farmer, and her mum is a large-animal vet, so Jasmine spends a lot of time caring for animals and keeping them out of trouble. Unfortunately, this often means she gets into hot water herself. In the first installment of the series, A Piglet Called Truffle, Jasmine rescues a tiny piglet from certain death. Despite her parents' belief that farm animals should not be pets, Jasmine is determined to keep Truffle and give her a permanent home. A daring rescue during a freezing, stormy night might be just what it takes to prove that Truffle truly belongs with the family. This compelling story will evoke both laughter and tears, reminiscent of the work of Dick King-Smith for a new generation.
Discussion points
How do you think Jasmine felt when she first found Truffle?
What would you have done if you found a lost animal like Truffle?
Why is it important to take care of animals?
What did Jasmine learn from her experience with Truffle?
How did the characters change from the beginning to the end of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing a personal story about an animal you cared for or a time you helped someone in need. This can create a personal connection and make the discussion more relatable. Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Jasmine’s shoes to deepen empathy and perspective-taking. Use the themes of compassion and responsibility as focal points to highlight the moral lessons from the story. Finally, ask your child to draw their favorite scene from the book which can serve as a visual aid to stimulate further discussion about the story's events and characters.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Compassion and Care
Explanation: Jasmine shows compassion by saving Truffle, the piglet, from an uncertain fate. Her actions teach children about kindness and nurturing towards animals.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to treat animals with love and empathy, understanding their needs and ensuring they feel safe and cared for.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Through Jasmine’s daily commitment to caring for Truffle, the book highlights the importance of taking responsibility for another life.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this by taking on small responsibilities at home, like caring for a pet, helping with chores, or looking after their belongings.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Jasmine faces and overcomes several challenges in keeping Truffle safe. This aspect of the story underscores the importance of critical thinking and finding solutions.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to remain calm and think critically when faced with challenges in school or in their social interactions.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: The bond between Jasmine and Truffle exemplifies true friendship, regardless of differences.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to build meaningful connections and respect friends who may be different from themselves.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: Jasmine’s determination to protect and care for Truffle, despite the difficulties she encounters, teaches the value of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to persist in their efforts, whether in academic pursuits, hobbies, or relationships.