Dixie & Dolly (Dixie Morris Animal Adventure #3)
#3 in Dixie Morris Animal Adventure Series
on Goodreads (40)
What’s inside...
While living with her aunt who is a veterinarian for a circus and the caretaker of a gorilla that understands sign language, Dixie uses deceit to try to get a special pet. When Dixie's parents go to Africa, she stays with her Aunt Sarah, a circus veterinarian, who becomes the caretaker for Dolly, a gorilla who knows sign language, and Dixie finds herself helping the gorilla get a pet cat.
Character compass
Dixie Morris
Dolly
Discussion points
How do you think Dixie felt when she met Dolly for the first time?
What are some ways Dixie and Dolly show they care for each other?
If you were in Dixie's place, how would you help an animal in need?
What did you learn about friendship from Dixie and Dolly's adventure?
Can you think of a time when you helped a friend like Dixie helps Dolly?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they would feel in Dixie's situations.
Highlight the importance of kindness and teamwork, discussing real-life applications with your child.
Ask your child to draw or describe a similar adventure they might embark on with their own friends or pets.
Help your child connect with the characters by comparing their actions to the child's experiences and feelings.
Reinforce the moral lessons subtly, allowing your child to express what they've understood from the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'Dixie & Dolly', Dixie takes care of various animals, demonstrating the importance of being responsible.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking on age-appropriate chores at home or caring for a pet, learning the value of reliability and diligence.
Example Lesson: Compassion
Explanation: Throughout the book, Dixie shows kindness to animals, highlighting the theme of compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can show compassion in their daily lives by being kind to classmates, helping a friend in need, or showing empathy towards family members.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Dixie faces challenges bravely in the story, teaching readers about the importance of courage in overcoming fears.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to face their own fears, whether it's trying out for a sports team, standing up to a bully, or participating in a school play.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: The bond between Dixie and her friends emphasizes the value of friendship and trust.
Real-World Application: Children learn to build strong, supportive friendships and understand the importance of trust and teamwork in relationships.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Dixie often encounters problems that she must solve, which showcases her problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children can apply problem-solving skills in schoolwork or in resolving disputes with peers, fostering resilience and critical thinking.