My Cousin the Minotaur
What’s inside...
Princess Chloe's cousin has been cursed by the gods and turned into a minotaur. The locals have called for Prince Thesus to kill the beast. Chloe must make a special potion with ingredients from Mount Olympus to reverse the curse before Prince Thesus arrives.
Discussion points
How did Mike’s feelings about the Minotaur change throughout the story? What made his perspective shift?
What qualities make Mike a good friend? Can you think of a time when you helped a friend like Mike helps the Minotaur?
The Minotaur is seen as different and frightening at first. How does getting to know someone help us understand and appreciate our differences?
What do you think is the moral of the story, and how can you apply it in your own life?
If you could ask any character in the book a question, who and what would you ask?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, relating it to their own experiences with friendships and misunderstandings.
Discuss the importance of empathy and understanding, highlighting how Mike’s kindness helped transform the Minotaur’s life.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios within the book, fostering creativity and deeper thinking about the characters’ motivations and emotions.
Relate the story’s themes to real-world examples of overcoming fears and prejudices, reinforcing the book's messages in a broader context.
Use expressive reading techniques, changing your tone and pace to match the narrative, making the story more engaging and relatable for your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Differences
Explanation: In 'My Cousin the Minotaur', the protagonist learns to appreciate the unique traits of his cousin, the Minotaur, despite initial fears and misunderstandings.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to embrace diversity and be open to forming friendships with peers who may seem different.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: Throughout the book, the protagonist faces challenges that require courage, especially when confronting the mythical Minotaur, eventually learning that bravery can lead to understanding and compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to face their own fears, whether it’s trying out a new activity or standing up for what is right.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Family Bonds
Explanation: Despite the initial fear, the protagonist learns that family connections can overcome even the most daunting differences, as seen in his developing relationship with the Minotaur.
Real-World Application: This story can help children appreciate and strengthen their family ties, understanding that family support is invaluable.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: As the story unfolds, the protagonist begins to understand the world from the Minotaur’s perspective, promoting empathy.
Real-World Application: Children learn that understanding others' feelings and viewpoints is crucial in building strong relationships and resolving conflicts.
Example Lesson: Resolving Misconceptions
Explanation: The book shows how misconceptions about the Minotaur are cleared up as the protagonist gets to know him better, which changes the initial fear to friendship.
Real-World Application: This lesson is relatable to children as it encourages them to seek the truth and understand situations fully before forming opinions.