Binky: License to Scratch (A Binky Adventure)
#5 in Binky Series
What’s inside...
Binky the Space Cat along with fellow space pets Gordie and Gracie have been left at the pet hotel while their humans go on holiday. Only it's not a hotel at all - it's the vet! 'No way are they staying,' Binky thinks. 'They are an elite space team. There is no chance that a 'pet hotel' will contain the likes of them.' So the trio hatch a plan to escape through the building's vents. But along the way, their mission takes a precarious turn when they stumble upon the secret lab of the notorious Professor Tuffy in the vet's basement. Binky the space cat and his team of space pets are left at the vet's office while their humans are away. Binky plans an escape, only to stumble on a secret experiment that could give vicious aliens the upper hand! It's up to Binky and his friends to save the humans ... and themselves! Binky: License to Scratch is the final book in the Binky Adventure series, where dry humour and sci-fi slapstick are mixed with lots of heart.
Discussion points
Why do you think Binky wanted to protect his family from the aliens?
How did Binky and Gordon's relationship change throughout the story?
What are some ways Binky showed bravery?
How do you think the new pet, Gracie, felt when she first arrived?
What would you do if you were in Binky's situation?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they think it means to be brave and discuss how they might handle facing their fears.
While reading, highlight moments where Binky or other characters are showing courage or fear, and talk about the emotions portrayed in the illustrations.
After reading, encourage your child to talk about a time they felt like they had a 'mission' to complete, just like Binky, and how they accomplished it.
Use the interactions between Binky and Gracie to discuss topics of friendship, jealousy, and acceptance, asking your child how they make new friends feel welcome.
Discuss the idea of 'protecting' like Binky does in the story, and what it means to protect someone emotionally and physically in real settings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Adaptability and Resourcefulness
Explanation: Binky showcases adaptability and resourcefulness by devising creative solutions to protect his home from alien intruders (bugs).
Real-World Application: Children can learn to think on their feet and solve problems creatively, whether in play or real-life challenges.
Example Lesson: Dealing with Discomfort in New Situations
Explanation: Binky is initially distrustful of the newcomer, Gordon, which mirrors common feelings when facing new situations or people.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to manage their fears and doubts in new situations, helping them to adapt to new environments like school or new social circles.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Throughout the adventure, Binky learns the value of working together with Gordon, demonstrating that collaboration can achieve greater results than working alone.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to engage in teamwork in school projects or group sports, teaching them the importance of cooperation and mutual support.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: As Binky gets to know Gordon, he begins to understand and empathize with him, changing his initial perception.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be open to forming new friendships and understanding differing perspectives, promoting empathy and social skills.
Example Lesson: Protective Instincts and Courage
Explanation: Binky's adventures emphasize the courage to protect one’s space and loved ones, showing bravery against the 'alien' threats.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being brave in the face of challenges and looking out for their family and friends.