Mr Dog and the Faraway Fox (Mr Dog)
#3 of 6 in Mr Dog Series
on Goodreads (34)
What’s inside...
A brand new young fiction series by TV broadcaster and intrepid explorer Ben Fogle, inspired by his real-life animal experiences. Co-written with best-selling children's author Steve Cole and illustrated throughout with beautiful black and white illustrations by Nikolas Ilic. You can always count on Mr. Dog to help an animal in trouble. When Mr. Dog takes a trip into town, he doesn't expect to stay for long. But then he meets a fox who needs his help - a fox who's very far from home.
Discussion points
How do you think Mr. Dog felt when he first met the faraway fox?
What would you do if you met an animal in need like the faraway fox?
Why is it important to help others, even if they are very different from us?
How do the different animals in the book work together? What does this teach us about teamwork?
If you could ask Mr. Dog or the faraway fox a question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, relating them to their own experiences. Use the questions as a guideline to delve deeper into the themes of empathy, teamwork, and helping others. Highlight the importance of kindness and understanding toward all creatures. Applaud your child's responses and insights to boost their confidence and interest in discussions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Mr Dog and the Faraway Fox', Mr Dog helps a lost fox, highlighting the importance of understanding and empathizing with others' situations.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to recognize when someone else needs help or is feeling down, and offering their support or friendship.
Example Lesson: Courage and Resilience
Explanation: Throughout the adventure, Mr Dog demonstrates courage when facing unfamiliar situations and resilience in overcoming obstacles to help the fox.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to face their own challenges bravely, whether it's trying new activities, facing academic challenges, or standing up for what is right.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: As Mr Dog navigates through the story, he uses his problem-solving skills to figure out solutions to help the fox return home.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to think critically and creatively solve problems they encounter in school or in social scenarios.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Helping Others
Explanation: Mr Dog’s journey is centered around helping someone in need, reinforcing the value of selflessness and community support.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to look out for ways to assist others, whether it's at home, in school, or within their community, fostering a sense of social responsibility.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The protagonist, Mr Dog, adapts to new environments and challenges effortlessly, showing the importance of being flexible and open to change.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to be adaptable in various situations such as moving to a new school, dealing with changes at home or trying new activities.