Mouse Soup (An I Can Read Book)
I Can Read Level 1 Series
on Goodreads (5,932)
What’s inside...
When a mouse learns that he is to be the main ingredient in the weasel's mouse soup, he concocts four tales to delay its preparation. This is another sweet bedtime story about Mouse from Arnold Lobel, the beloved author and illustrator of the Newbery Honor and Caldecott Honor award-winning Frog and Toad books. The narrative highlights the tradition of I Can Read books, which began with Harper's publication of 'Little Bear' in 1957, featuring large type, simple vocabulary, and chapter-like divisions to help emerging readers. Classics such as Amelia Bedelia, Arthur the monkey, and Danny and the Dinosaur followed, all cherished for the depth of emotion they evoke, suitable for children in Grades 1 to 3.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Mouse
Weasel
Discussion points
What do you think Mouse was feeling when he was trying to trick Weasel? Can you think of a time when you had to be clever?
How did the stories Mouse told change Weasel’s mind? What does this teach us about the power of storytelling?
Which of the stories Mouse told was your favorite and why?
What lesson did you learn from the story of Mouse Soup? How might you apply this lesson in your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
While reading 'Mouse Soup' with your child, pause after each story Mouse tells and ask your child what they think will happen next. This maintains engagement and piques curiosity.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings for the stories within the book. This fosters creativity and deeper understanding of narrative impact.
Discuss the themes of cunning and quick thinking showcased in the book. Relate them to real-life scenarios where these skills could be beneficial, making the lessons more tangible for your child.
Post-reading, co-create a short story with your child where they come up with a clever solution to a problem. This makes the reading experience interactive and memorable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: The main character, Mouse, uses wit and clever thinking to outsmart the weasel who intends to make soup out of him.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of quick thinking and using intelligence to navigate difficult situations.
Example Lesson: Creativity and storytelling
Explanation: Mouse tells stories to distract the weasel, showcasing the power and value of creativity and narrative skills.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to use their imagination and storytelling abilities as a tool for communication and problem-solving.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through the stories Mouse tells, various characters learn to understand and empathize with others’ perspectives and problems.
Real-World Application: Helps children grasp the significance of seeing things from other people's viewpoints, fostering empathy and social skills.
Example Lesson: The importance of patience
Explanation: Mouse's stories require the weasel to listen and be patient, which ultimately leads to Mouse's freedom.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the benefits of being patient in achieving desired outcomes and dealing with others.