Mary Was a Little Lamb
What’s inside...
Mrs. Paradise figures out what to do with Mary, a wayward, abandoned lamb. Based on a true story. A little lamb named Mary was left all alone in the middle of a big field, crying out for company. Mischievous and curious, Mary befriends the children of Cranberry Island and their pets, but her curiosity often leads to trouble. When her antics require intervention, Mrs. Paradise devises a solution that leaves everyone, including Mary, content.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Mary decided to help the lamb when it was lost?
How did you feel when Mary and the lamb became friends?
What do you think makes a good friend, like Mary was to the lamb?
What would you have done if you were in Mary’s place and found the lamb?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone like Mary helped the lamb?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the emotions of the characters by asking them how they think Mary and the lamb felt during different parts of the story.
Connect the story to your child’s experiences by discussing times when they have made new friends or helped someone in need.
Before turning the page, ask your child to guess what might happen next, fostering their predictive and analytical skills.
After reading the book, encourage your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene, helping them visualize and remember the story.
Discuss the qualities that Mary shows in the book, like kindness and bravery, and ask your child how they can demonstrate these qualities in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Individuality and Self-Acceptance
Explanation: Mary embracing her unique qualities as a lamb among her peers demonstrates the importance of self-acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate their own differences and those of others, fostering a positive self-image and respect for diversity.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the story, Mary faces various challenges but she perseveres, teaching children the value of determination.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the importance of persisting through difficulties, whether it’s in their studies, sports, or personal goals.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Kindness
Explanation: Mary shows kindness to other characters in the story, illustrating how empathy and kindness are important traits.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be considerate and supportive of their peers, enhancing social interactions and friendships.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Mary creatively solves problems that arise, emphasizing the importance of using one’s intellect and creativity to navigate challenges.
Real-World Application: Instills a sense of resourcefulness in children, preparing them to handle real-life situations effectively.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Mary collaborates with others to achieve common goals, showcasing the benefits of working together.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of cooperation and how combining efforts can lead to greater achievements.