Coaching Madcap: Book 1 (Muddy Paws)
#1 in Muddy Paws Series
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
Adorable animal antics from bestselling author Jenny Oldfield, about cousins Lily and Lexi and their animal problem-solving agency. No animal - or animal-shaped problem - is too big or small for Lexi and Lily, known as 'Muddy Paws,' the animal experts. There are two exciting developments in the seaside town of Mellingham - the local show, where animals can compete for prizes, and the fact that it's home to Luke from the nation's most famous boy band, Up Front. Luke wants to enter Madcap, his boisterous pup, in the show - but he is uncontrollable. Lily and Lexi are determined to help, but time is running out. How can they avoid disappointing Luke? Muddy Paws will find a way! Includes gorgeous illustrations by Paul Howard, illustrator of classics such as THE OWL WHO WAS AFRAID OF THE DARK and THE BRAVEST EVER BEAR.
Discussion points
What do you think made Madcap decide to enter the race, and how would you feel in his situation?
How did the characters show teamwork throughout the story?
What were some challenges Madcap faced and how did he overcome them?
If you were Madcap, how would you handle the muddy mess?
What did Madcap learn by the end of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their personal experiences, particularly times they faced challenges or worked as part of a team.
Ask open-ended questions to understand how your child interprets Madcap’s actions and reactions during various situations in the book.
Validate their feelings and perceptions as they discuss the story, and relate them to real-life situations when appropriate.
Highlight the importance of perseverance and teamwork as demonstrated in the book to contribute to your child’s social and emotional learning.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'Coaching Madcap: Book 1 (Muddy Paws)', the protagonist learns to take care of a playful puppy named Madcap, showing the importance of being responsible for another living being.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking on age-appropriate chores or looking after pets, learning the importance of consistency and accountability in daily tasks.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters encounter various challenges that require quick thinking and solutions, such as finding Madcap when he goes missing.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to develop critical thinking skills and resilience by facing and solving their own problems, whether at school or in social situations.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The characters show compassion and understanding towards each other's feelings, especially in dealing with Madcap's mischief.
Real-World Application: Children learn to consider the feelings and perspectives of others, which can enhance their interpersonal relationships and social interactions.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The book emphasizes the value of working together to achieve common goals, such as organizing a search party for Madcap.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of cooperation and collaboration in group activities at school or in sports.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Characters in the book often have to adapt to unexpected situations caused by Madcap's antics.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the ability to adjust to changes and cope with unforeseen circumstances in their own lives, fostering flexibility and resilience.