Metropolitan Cow
on Goodreads (91)
What’s inside...
When a family of pigs moves in next door, Bennett is happy to see they have a son his age. But when he starts playing around in the mud, his parents forbid him to see Webster. So Bennett runs away, and his parents learn to overcome their prejudice. Their parents said 'cows don't play with pigs,' but newfound friends Webster and Bennett discover that friendship has no limits or rules and are able to teach their parents a lesson in love and friendship.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made the cow want to live in the city?
How do you think the cow felt when he was trying to fit in with city life?
What are some differences between living in the countryside and the city?
Why is it important to accept others for who they are, even if they are different from us?
If you were the cow, would you choose to stay in the city or go back to the farm? Why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voices for different characters to make the story more engaging.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at various points in the story to encourage active participation.
Discuss personal experiences related to moving or visiting new places to connect the story to your child’s life.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene, which can open up more discussion about the story's themes.
Link the themes from the book to your child’s everyday experiences, such as making new friends or trying new activities.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Differences
Explanation: In 'Metropolitan Cow,' the story revolves around two cows, Herb and Sam, who are different in many ways, yet they build a strong friendship. This narrative thread highlights the importance of accepting and valuing others despite differences.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to appreciate diverse perspectives and characteristics among their peers, which fosters a more inclusive and understanding environment in school and other social settings.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, Herb and Sam encounter various challenges. Together, they come up with creative solutions, demonstrating the effectiveness of teamwork and critical thinking.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to use their imagination and creativity to solve problems they encounter, whether it's during playtime or in academic settings, enhancing their cognitive development and decision-making skills.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: As Herb and Sam venture from the countryside to the city, they learn to adapt to a completely new environment. This transition in the story underlines the importance of being flexible and open to change.
Real-World Application: This lesson is vital for children as it prepares them to handle changes in life, such as moving to a new place, changing schools, or any new experiences that require an adaptative approach.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: The cows show bravery as they explore unknown territories and face their fears. This aspect of the story serves to teach children the value of courage in overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and challenges boldly, whether it's trying out for a school play, standing up for what is right, or making new friends.