on Goodreads (2)
What’s inside...
The newest in Barron's appealing series of Chunky books features four friendly animals with rolling button eyes on faces that extend from their front covers. The books have simple, cheerfully illustrated stories inside to entertain toddlers. The extra heavy board pages are solid enough so that when the book is closed, the animal can stand up on its own. Rover is the family's much-loved pet, but sometimes he is mischievous.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-4
Length
14 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Dog
Discussion points
What do you think the dog might be feeling when he meets new friends?
How do you think taking care of a dog might be similar or different from taking care of other pets?
Why do you think the dog behaves the way he does in the story?
What would you do if you had a dog like the one in the book?
Can you think of a time when you helped a friend just like the characters in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the dog's adventures. Ask them how they would feel in similar situations.
Discuss the responsibilities of owning a pet, relating them to the caretaking activities shown in the book.
Explore the themes of friendship and empathy by discussing the interactions between the dog and other characters.
Use expressive reading to convey the emotions of the characters, making the story more engaging and relatable to your child.
After reading, ask your child to draw their favorite scene from the book. Discuss what they liked about it and why it stood out to them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The book 'Dog' by Emily Bolam showcases the life and feelings of a dog, helping children understand and share the feelings of another being.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by recognizing emotions in pets and other animals, as well as in their peers, fostering a nurturing and caring attitude.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Through the daily routines and needs of the dog, the book teaches children about the responsibilities involved in taking care of an animal.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of daily duties such as feeding, walking, and caring for pets or taking on simple chores at home.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: The interaction between the dog and other characters in the book illustrates the value of friendship and companionship.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of being a good friend in their interactions with classmates and siblings, promoting healthy social development.
Example Lesson: Kindness
Explanation: The book portrays characters treating the dog with kindness, which can teach children the importance of being gentle and kind to animals and each other.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to practice acts of kindness in their everyday interactions with both animals and people.