Charlotte and the White Horse
What’s inside...
A girl describes how she takes care of her little white horse named Milky Way. In addition, a two-year program is highlighted where twenty-two Maurice Sendak treasures that were long out of print are being republished. This program emphasizes the successful collaboration between author Ruth Krauss and illustrator Maurice Sendak. Krauss, a pioneer in children's literature, published over thirty books for children during her forty-year career. Krauss and Sendak worked together on eight books, and this publication season reintroduces four of these gems along with a favorite Maurice Sendak picture book.
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Charlotte
The White Horse
Discussion points
How do you think Charlotte feels about her white horse, and why?
What does the white horse represent for Charlotte in this story?
Can you describe a moment in the book where Charlotte had to make a difficult decision? What would you have done in her place?
How does the relationship between Charlotte and the white horse change throughout the book?
What do you think the author wants us to learn from this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story. Let them know it's okay to empathize with characters and to share personal experiences that relate to the story.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios in the book, enhancing their creativity and problem-solving skills.
Focus on the emotions and the moral lessons of the story to cultivate empathy and ethical reasoning in your child.
Relate the story's themes to real-life events or personal experiences, making connections that reinforce the relevance of the book’s message.
Celebrate your child's responses and insights, boosting their confidence and encouraging a love for reading and discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Kindness and Care
Explanation: In the story, Charlotte shows deep affection and care towards her white horse, demonstrating tenderness in her actions.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of showing kindness and empathy towards animals and people, fostering a nurturing behavior from a young age.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Charlotte is responsible for feeding and taking care of the horse, which teaches her how to manage duties and responsibilities.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take charge of their own tasks, such as cleaning up their toys or caring for a pet, instilling a sense of responsibility.
Example Lesson: The Joy of Simple Pleasures
Explanation: The story highlights the simple joys found in everyday activities with the horse, promoting contentment.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to appreciate and find happiness in simple moments, reducing the constant need for entertainment or materialistic gratification.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fear
Explanation: Charlotte overcomes initial fears of riding the horse, which is a significant theme in the narrative.
Real-World Application: It teaches children the value of facing and overcoming their fears, whether it’s trying out a new activity or making new friends.
Example Lesson: Patience
Explanation: Caring for the horse requires patience, as depicted when Charlotte patiently grooms and feeds the horse.
Real-World Application: This helps children understand the importance of patience in achieving desired outcomes and in dealing with others.