Alexander and the Horse
illustrations by
What’s inside...
The story follows the adventures of Alexander as he forms a special bond with a horse. Together, they embark on a journey filled with challenges and discoveries that ultimately lead to growth and friendship.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-9
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Alexander feel when he first saw the horse and how did his feelings change throughout the story?
What would you have done if you were in Alexander's place when he faced challenges?
Why do you think the horse was important to Alexander?
How do you think taking care of the horse helped Alexander grow?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone and it made you feel good?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate personal experiences to the story. Draw parallels between Alexander's adventures and their own experiences.
Discuss the emotions portrayed in the book. Ask your child how they felt during key moments in the story and why.
Focus on the theme of responsibility and growth. Discuss with your child how taking care of something or someone can lead to personal development.
Use the story’s illustrations to deepen understanding. Point out visual cues that might tell more about Alexander’s feelings or the setting.
Highlight the lessons learned by Alexander and explore together how these lessons can be applied in your child's life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Alexander faces his initial fear of riding a large horse. Throughout the story, he learns to overcome this fear with determination and guidance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to confront their own fears, whether it’s trying out for a sports team, speaking in front of a class, or riding a bike without training wheels.
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: Despite several setbacks, Alexander continues to try and improve his horse riding skills, showcasing the importance of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to keep trying and not give up easily, whether it involves mastering a new skill, completing homework, or building relationships with peers.
Example Lesson: Importance of seeking help
Explanation: Alexander seeks help from a more experienced rider when he struggles, illustrating the importance of asking for assistance when needed.
Real-World Application: Children learn that it's okay to ask for help from parents, teachers, or friends when they face challenges, emphasizing the significance of communication and support.
Example Lesson: Respect for animals
Explanation: Throughout the book, Alexander learns to treat the horse with care, respect, and empathy, understanding its needs and feelings.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be considerate and kind to animals they interact with, fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy.