Mad Iris
#1 in Picture Puffin Books Series
What’s inside...
Ross and Katie attempt to hide an escaped ostrich in the school toilets. A hilarious adventure! Barrington Stoke specialize in books for reluctant, struggling and dyslexic readers.
Discussion points
What do you think made Iris act so wildly?
How do you think Ross felt when Iris caused chaos? Have you ever felt a similar way?
What are some ways the characters in the book showed they cared for each other?
If you were in the story, how would you help calm Iris down?
What did you learn about teamwork and friendship from 'Mad Iris'?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin by sharing your favorite funny moment from the book to kickstart the conversation in a light-hearted way.
Ask your child to relate scenarios in the book to their own experiences, such as dealing with unpredictable situations or managing friendships.
Encourage your child to think about the different character's perspectives and motivations by asking what they would do differently if they were in the same situation.
Discuss the importance of empathy and understanding, highlighting moments in the book where characters showed compassion.
Praise your child’s insights and responses to foster a positive and open discussion environment.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'Mad Iris,' children learn about responsibility through the characters who care for Iris, the ostrich. They must ensure she is safe and well-looked after.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking care of their own pets or helping with chores around the house, understanding the importance of being responsible for others.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The book showcases empathy by demonstrating how characters understand and share the feelings of Iris, particularly when she feels scared or unhappy.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be more attuned to the emotions of others around them, whether it's family members or classmates, promoting a more caring environment.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout 'Mad Iris,' the characters encounter various challenges and must come up with creative solutions to keep Iris out of trouble.
Real-World Application: Children learn to apply critical thinking and creativity to solve problems they face in school or in their social interactions.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: The characters often work together to handle the challenges posed by Iris's antics, illustrating effective teamwork.
Real-World Application: This lesson reinforces the importance of collaborating with others to achieve common goals, useful in group projects or family activities.