Dixie and Champ (Dixie Morris Animal Adventure #7)
#7 in Dixie Morris Animal Adventure Series
on Goodreads (32)
What’s inside...
Dixie Morris makes friends with a Romany boy, who teaches her how to ride his quarterhorse, Champ, in rodeo barrel races, as she makes his family welcome and defends them with the help of her Christian faith when they are accused of being horse thieves.
Discussion points
What do you think Dixie felt when she met Champ for the first time? Why?
How did Dixie and Champ help each other in the story? Can you think of a time when a friend helped you?
What do you think is the most important lesson Dixie learns from her adventures?
How do the animals communicate with each other and what can we learn from them about communication?
If you were Dixie, what would you have done differently in any of her adventures?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story, relating to the emotions of the characters.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at several points during the story to develop their analytical thinking.
Discuss the value of friendship and teamwork as depicted in the book, sharing personal family stories that echo these themes.
Explore the concept of responsibility and taking care of animals by contextualizing it within your child's daily experiences.
Use a map to trace Dixie’s adventures, making it a fun and educational activity that enhances geographical knowledge.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Compassion for animals
Explanation: In 'Dixie and Champ', Dixie’s loving interactions with animals, including a spirited horse named Champ, demonstrate the importance of treating animals with kindness and empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can practice this by caring for their pets, showing kindness to animals they meet, and understanding the needs and feelings of animals.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of challenges
Explanation: Dixie frequently faces challenges that require bravery, including her adventures involving animal rescues. Her courage in these situations educates about facing fears and the value of bravery.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by confronting their own fears, whether it's trying something new or standing up for what's right, in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, Dixie encounters problems that she must solve, such as figuring out how to rescue a friend or an animal. This highlights the importance of critical thinking and problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This translates to children learning to think critically in situations at school or in personal life, encouraging them to explore different solutions to problems they face.
Example Lesson: Friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Dixie often collaborates with her friends to overcome obstacles. This promotes the values of teamwork and building strong, supportive relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these principles by working together with peers on school projects, sports teams, or during play, appreciating each person’s contribution and supporting each other.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Caring for Champ and other animals teaches Dixie the importance of responsibility. Being accountable for another's wellbeing is a prominent theme.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to take responsibility for their actions, their belongings, and in caring for others, whether it’s a family pet or helping out with younger siblings.