Ambrose Follows His Nose
illustrations by
on Goodreads (32)
What’s inside...
Ambrose, a young rabbit with an extraordinary sense of smell, lives with his family in a hutch owned by Jim. When Jim's niece Biddy visits, she trains Ambrose to track things with his nose, which proves invaluable in rescuing his sister from a foxhole and detecting a fire in Jim's cottage. Through his adventures, Ambrose proves his incredible abilities, and Biddy's wish to take him home might come true.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-10
Length
176 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Ambrose smelled that made him so curious?
How do you think Ambrose felt on his adventure? Can you describe a time when you felt the same way?
What would you have done if you were in Ambrose's place?
Why is it important to explore new things, just like Ambrose did?
What did Ambrose learn at the end of his journey?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate Ambrose's experiences to their own by asking them about times they have felt curious or adventurous. Use expressive questions to delve deeper into the story’s themes, such as curiosity, bravery, and discovery. Foster an environment where your child feels comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings about the book. Highlight the sensory experiences in the story, such as smells and sights, to help your child connect with Ambrose's adventures.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity drives discovery and learning.
Explanation: Ambrose, the main character, uses his keen sense of smell to explore his environment, uncovering new experiences and learning from them.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore their surroundings and learn through their senses, promoting an active and inquisitive approach to learning.
Example Lesson: The importance of problem-solving.
Explanation: Throughout the book, Ambrose encounters various situations where he needs to use his wit and senses to navigate challenges.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of thinking through problems and finding creative solutions, skills valuable in school and everyday life.
Example Lesson: Building confidence through achievements.
Explanation: As Ambrose successfully follows his nose and solves the problems he encounters, he grows more confident in his abilities.
Real-World Application: Helps children see that facing challenges and overcoming them can build self-esteem and self-reliance.
Example Lesson: The power of persistence.
Explanation: Ambrose does not give up despite the challenges along his path; his persistent nature helps him reach his goals.
Real-World Application: Instills the value of perseverance in children, teaching them that persistence often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Respect for all living things.
Explanation: In his adventures, Ambrose interacts with various creatures and treats them with kindness and respect.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to treat animals and people they meet with respect and kindness, fostering empathy and social skills.