Glooscap and the Baby: Independent Reading 12
#12 in Independent Reading Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
In 'Glooscap and the Baby: Independent Reading 12,' Caroline Walker offers a captivating tale featuring Glooscap, a mythical character from Wabanaki folklore, who encounters a mysterious and unbeatable baby. This encounter leads him on a series of whimsical adventures that impart lessons on responsibility, empathy, and cultural heritage. The narrative is designed to captivate children's imagination while enhancing their reading skills. It is part of the Reading Champion series, which aims to encourage independent reading among children aged 7 and up, by matching books to their reading abilities and encouraging reading for pleasure.
Discussion points
What do you think Glooscap felt when he met the baby for the first time?
How did Glooscap's actions show kindness throughout the story?
Why is it important to help others, even if they are very different from us?
What would you have done if you were in Glooscap's place?
How do you think the baby's life changed after meeting Glooscap?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the emotions of the characters by asking them how they would feel in similar situations.
Highlight the importance of empathy by discussing how Glooscap’s understanding and actions made a difference.
Ask your child about times they have helped someone and discuss the outcomes.
Use the story as a starting point to discuss broader themes of kindness and responsibility towards others.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'Glooscap and the Baby,' the main character takes on the task of caring for a baby, demonstrating the importance of being responsible for others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking on small responsibilities at home, such as helping to set the table or taking care of a pet.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The story portrays the character's ability to understand and share the feelings of the baby, teaching children the value of empathizing with others.
Real-World Application: Children learn to recognize emotions in others and respond with kindness and understanding in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: The protagonist encounters challenges while caring for the baby and must come up with solutions, highlighting the importance of problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and creatively when faced with obstacles, whether at school or during play.
Example Lesson: The joy of helping others
Explanation: The main character experiences satisfaction from successfully helping and caring for the baby, which underscores the joy that can come from helping others.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to help others in their community, fostering a sense of satisfaction and community involvement.
Example Lesson: Independence
Explanation: As the character manages tasks independently while caring for the baby, the story promotes the development of independence in young readers.
Real-World Application: Kids are motivated to try new activities on their own, boosting their confidence and self-reliance.