Mousetronaut: Based on a (Partially) True Story
Mousetronaut Series
What’s inside...
Mousetronaut tells the story of a small mouse that dreams of traveling to outer space. Despite its size, the mouse works tirelessly alongside the larger mice to prove it is ready for the mission. The mouse's hard work pays off when it is selected to join the flight. While in space, the astronauts are faced with an unexpected crisis that only the tiniest crew member can resolve.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-6
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Meteor wanted to be part of the space mission?
How did Meteor help the astronauts on their journey?
What qualities make Meteor a good teammate?
How do you think the story would have changed if Meteor wasn't on the space mission?
What did you learn about space and teamwork from this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child what they know about astronauts and space missions to connect the story to their existing knowledge.
Encourage your child to think about the qualities that make someone a good team member, whether in space or on the ground.
Help them draw parallels between Meteor's adventures and any team activities they participate in, emphasizing cooperation and contribution.
After reading the book, ask your child to imagine their own space adventure. What role would they play? What challenges would they face?
Discuss the 'partially true' aspect of the story, exploring the blend of facts and fiction, to help your child understand creative storytelling.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Determination
Explanation: In 'Mousetronaut', the smallest mouse, Meteor, demonstrates courage by volunteering for a space mission despite his size.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that bravery is not defined by size but by the willingness to face challenges and try new experiences.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Meteor contributes crucially to the team’s success, showing that everyone has something valuable to offer, regardless of how small their role might seem.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of working together and valuing each member's contribution in group activities at school or in sports.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: Meteor solves a critical problem on the spacecraft that the human astronauts cannot, highlighting his unique capabilities.
Real-World Application: Children learn that thinking creatively and using their unique strengths can help solve problems in everyday life.
Example Lesson: Following Dreams
Explanation: Despite the odds, Meteor dreams of going to space and achieves this goal through perseverance.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to pursue their passions and goals, teaching them that determination can lead to achieving one's dreams.
Example Lesson: Humility and Recognition
Explanation: After the mission, Meteor is celebrated as a hero but remains humble, acknowledging the team's effort.
Real-World Application: This highlights the value of humility and recognizing others' contributions, which can enhance social interactions and build respectful relationships among peers.