Mr. Postmouse Takes a Trip
#2 in Mr. Postmouse Series
on Goodreads (376)
What’s inside...
The post office is closed, prompting Mr. Postmouse and his family to embark on a vacation. Even while on holiday, Mr. Postmouse continues his duties by bringing along parcels to deliver around the world. Traveling by various modes of transportation, the mouse family explores different habitats from forests to ice fields, encountering new adventures and animal friends at every stop. Illustrated by Marianne Dubuc, the book overflows with clever details, cross-section drawings, and stories-within-a-story, providing a playful and educational experience that introduces concepts of community, neighborhoods, transportation, animal habitats, and global cultures.
Discussion points
What different places does Mr. Postmouse visit on his trip, and what unique things does he see?
How do the animals in the book help each other? Can you think of a way we help our neighbors or friends?
What are some of the interesting packages Mr. Postmouse delivers? Which one was your favorite and why?
If you could design a home for an animal, what would it look like and what special features would it have?
How do you think Mr. Postmouse feels about his job and traveling to new places? Would you like a job like that?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use the illustrations in the book to spark deeper conversations. Ask your child to describe the details they see and how those details add to the story.
Relate the story to your child’s experiences by discussing any deliveries you have received and what it was like waiting for them.
Encourage empathy by discussing how the characters might feel in various situations throughout the book.
After reading, ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. This helps reinforce their memory and understanding of the story.
Create a fun post-reading activity where you and your child imagine and write a postcard from Mr. Postmouse to one of the book's characters, discussing his travels.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Different Cultures
Explanation: As Mr. Postmouse travels, he delivers packages to various animals around the world, each living in uniquely designed homes that reflect their culture.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and recognize the beauty in different cultures and lifestyles, fostering an open and inclusive mindset from an early age.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The journey of Mr. Postmouse encourages an adventurous spirit as he explores new environments while making his deliveries.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be curious about the world around them, promoting learning through exploration and discovery.
Example Lesson: Diligence and Responsibility
Explanation: Mr. Postmouse diligently completes his job, ensuring all packages are delivered to the right recipient, showcasing responsibility in completing tasks.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of completing tasks responsibly and the satisfaction that comes with fulfilling duties.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout his trip, Mr. Postmouse encounters various challenges that require quick thinking and problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think critically and solve problems when faced with obstacles, essential skills for everyday challenges.
Example Lesson: The Joy of Helping Others
Explanation: Mr. Postmouse’s role as a delivery mouse highlights the happiness derived from helping others and bringing joy through his deliveries.
Real-World Application: Instills the value of helping others and the positive feelings associated with acts of kindness and community service.