Backyard Rescue
What’s inside...
Lindsey and Gret never intended to start a wildlife hospital in their backyard, but once they started caring for an injured owl the word got around and kids started bringing them all sorts of sick animals. However, they face challenges in saving the animals from the authorities. Additionally, Ten-year-olds Greta and Lindsay are best friends who share an interest in rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife. But when Greta's unemployed father gets a job in another town, Lindsay is afraid she'll lose Greta's friendship.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the animals in the backyard felt when they were in trouble? Can you imagine how you would feel in their place?
Why do you think the character decided to help the animals? What would you do if you found an animal that needed help?
How do you think helping the animals changed the backyard? What changes did you notice in the story from beginning to end?
What did you learn from the story about taking care of animals and nature? Is there something new you would like to try to help animals or nature around us?
If you could ask the author one question about the book, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they would feel in the place of both the animals and the rescuer, fostering a deeper connection to the characters' emotions.
Discuss the motivations behind the characters' actions, helping your child understand the importance of compassion and empathy towards animals.
Highlight transformation and cause-effect in the story. Ask your child to identify changes in the backyard before and after the rescue, enhancing their attention to detail and narrative understanding.
Bridge the book to the real world by discussing practical ways your family can help local wildlife or support animal welfare initiatives, encouraging responsible environmental stewardship.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Compassion towards animals
Explanation: In 'Backyard Rescue,' children encounter various animals in need of help. The story demonstrates how to gently and safely assist wild creatures.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being kind and considerate towards animals, fostering a sense of empathy and responsibility in their interactions with wildlife.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: The characters in the book work together to solve problems and rescue animals. This highlights the value of collaboration and mutual support.
Real-World Application: Kids understand the benefits of working with others to achieve common goals, which can be applied in school projects, sports, and family activities.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Each animal rescue presents a unique challenge that the characters must think creatively to overcome.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think critically and creatively when faced with challenges, developing resilience and adaptability in everyday situations.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The story emphasizes the importance of preserving natural habitats and respecting the environment.
Real-World Application: Instills a lifelong respect and care for the environment, encouraging practices like recycling, conservation, and protection of natural spaces.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Characters face their fears when they encounter various animals, showing bravery as they learn about and help them.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to confront their personal fears and uncertainties, empowering them to face new challenges with confidence.