Mossycoat (Everystory)
on Goodreads (58)
What’s inside...
This is the story of a beautiful girl and the adventures she has when her mother makes her a magic coat. A revived version of this well-known story, which has been written especially for today's children. It is one of a number of stories, within a series, that have been rewritten and re-illustrated by a selection of award-winning authors and illustrators to celebrate the 1998 National Year of Reading.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Mossycoat felt when she wore her special coat? What makes you feel special?
Why do you think the characters made the choices they did? Would you have done anything differently?
What does the story of Mossycoat teach us about kindness and helping others?
How did the setting of the story influence the events? Can you imagine this story happening somewhere else?
If you could add a new character to the story, who would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage children to think deeply about the characters and their choices by asking them to relate personally to the story. For example, inquire about times they felt similar emotions to the characters. Highlight the moral lessons by discussing real-life applications of kindness and generosity depicted in the book. Use vivid descriptions from the text to help children visualize the scenes, enhancing their understanding and connection to the story. Lastly, promote creative thinking by inviting them to imagine new elements or characters in the story, fostering a more interactive and engaging reading experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'Mossycoat', the protagonist overcomes numerous challenges, showcasing determination and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of staying determined and persistent even when facing difficulties, helping them navigate their personal challenges.
Example Lesson: The value of kindness and generosity
Explanation: Mossycoat's interactions are marked by her kindness towards others, which eventually leads to positive outcomes in her life.
Real-World Application: This story inspires children to act kindly and generously, emphasizing how such behaviors can foster positive relationships and community spirit.
Example Lesson: Importance of resourcefulness
Explanation: Mossycoat uses her wits and resources available to her to solve problems and improve her situation.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think creatively and use available resources to handle various situations, enhancing their problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Believing in oneself
Explanation: Despite the obstacles, Mossycoat remains confident in her abilities and value, which is pivotal to her success.
Real-World Application: Instills confidence in children about their capabilities, motivating them to pursue their goals with self-assurance.
Example Lesson: Coping with loss and change
Explanation: Mossycoat experiences loss and adjusts to new circumstances throughout the narrative, illustrating resilience and adaptability.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand that change is a part of life and teaches them ways to adapt to changes and losses they might experience.