Horse Diaries #3: Koda
#3 of 16 in Horse Diaries Series
What’s inside...
Independence, Missouri, 1846: Koda, a bay quarter horse with a white blaze, loves exploring the countryside and running free with his human friend Jasmine. But when they set out on a long and dusty wagon train journey on the Oregon Trail, Koda discovers what truly matters to him. Told from Koda's perspective, this story weaves moving and knowledgeable text with lovely black-and-white art, making it a perfect fit for all lovers of horses and history.
Character compass
Koda
Discussion points
How do you think Koda felt when he was separated from his mother? Can you think of a time when you felt the same way?
What did Koda learn during his journey? How do his experiences help him grow?
Why do you think it's important for Koda to trust and work with others? How can we apply this lesson in our lives?
What qualities make Koda a strong and memorable character? Which of these qualities would you like to develop?
If you had the chance to meet Koda, what would you ask him and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they know about horses and if they've ever felt a strong bond with an animal. This will set a personal connection with Koda's story.
While reading, pause at intense moments and ask your child how they feel about the decisions Koda makes. This helps them to put themselves in Koda's hooves and enhances empathy.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene or write a letter to Koda. This promotes creative expression and deeper processing of the story's themes.
Use examples from real-life experiences that mirror the emotions and situations Koda encounters to help your child relate and understand the character’s growth and challenges.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Koda, the protagonist, faces numerous challenges, including being separated from his mother and navigating new environments. His journey vividly portrays how he overcomes these adversities with courage.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that despite difficulties, persistence and bravery can lead to overcoming obstacles and growth. This lesson can help them face their own challenges, such as moving to a new school or dealing with personal setbacks.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Throughout the story, Koda encounters various other characters, each with their own stories and struggles, teaching him to understand and share feelings of another.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be more empathetic towards their peers, understanding that everyone has their unique life stories, which can foster a more supportive community environment.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: Koda develops significant relationships throughout his journey. These friendships provide support and companionship, demonstrating the value of forming strong bonds.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by nurturing their own friendships, learning to value, support, and respect their friends, which is crucial for their social development.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: As Koda moves through different landscapes and meets new challenges, he learns to adapt to changing circumstances, an important survival trait depicted in the story.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of being flexible and adjusting to new situations, whether it's adjusting to a new brother or sister at home or adapting to a new activity at school.