Catie Copley's Great Escape
#2 in Catie Copley Series
What’s inside...
Catie Copley is a black Labrador retriever who serves as the Canine Ambassador at the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel in Boston. Her duties include welcoming guests and assisting the hotel's Chief Concierge, Jim. Catie's counterpart, Santol, who also trained as a guide dog, serves a similar role at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City, Canada. After a surprising encounter where a large, furry, black-and-white intruder (Santol) snatches her toy lobster, Catie befriends Santol. Catie embarks on her first vacation and first trip to a foreign city when Jim drives Santol back to Canada. In Quebec, Santol introduces Catie to new friends, foods, and experiences, leading to a series of adventures that prove to be exciting, yet somewhat overwhelming for her.
Discussion points
What do you think made Catie want to escape? How do you think she felt during her adventure?
Can you imagine what it's like to be Catie? How would you feel if you were in a new place all by yourself?
What are some ways Catie showed she was brave? Can you think of a time when you had to be brave?
Who helped Catie during her escape and how did they help her? Why is it important to have friends or helpers in new situations?
What would you have done if you were Catie? Would you explore or try to return home?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts about Catie's adventure to set a reflective tone. Ask open-ended questions to encourage your child to think deeply about the story and relate it to their own experiences. Validate their feelings and thoughts as they discuss the story, showing interest in their viewpoints. Tie the discussion back to the importance of courage and seeking help, reinforcing these values. Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or different scenarios to foster creativity and empathy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Catie Copley, the book's protagonist, demonstrates responsibility by taking care of tasks at the hotel where she lives and works.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take on appropriate responsibilities at home, such as tidying up their toys or helping with small household chores.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, Catie faces several challenges and uses her intelligence and skills to solve problems.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to apply problem-solving skills in their daily interactions and challenges, like dealing with disagreements with friends or completing school projects.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Friendship
Explanation: Catie's interactions with other characters emphasize the value of friendships and how they can provide support and joy.
Real-World Application: This narrative can teach children to nurture their friendships through kindness and communication, fostering positive relationships.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: Catie shows bravery when she escapes from the hotel to explore the city, facing new environments bravely.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and try new activities, which is crucial for their personal development.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: Catie learns that her actions, like escaping from the hotel, have consequences that she must face, teaching accountability.
Real-World Application: Lessons on the consequences of actions teach children to consider the impacts of their decisions on themselves and others.