Once Upon a Twice
What’s inside...
A cautionary tale for mice reminiscent of Carroll’s Jabberwocky! Out in the open, in the clear, Where any wisenmouse would fear, Jam licks his paw, he grooms an ear, And never hears approaching hisssss . . . What will happen to the brave mouse Jam when he breaks the rules and goes for a moonlit adventure against the advice of the elder mice? Award-winning illustrator Barry Moser has created a dark and vivid mouse world to complement this cautionary tale full of clever nonsense words and rhyming prose that will keep kids on the edge of their seats.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-9
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the risks were for Jam Boy venturing out into the night? How did he feel about taking those risks?
Why do you think the other mice warned Jam Boy? How does it feel when someone warns you about something?
What lessons can we learn from Jam Boy’s adventure?
How did the tone of the story shift when danger approached? Can you describe the mood created by the author’s words?
What importance do you think the setting of the story plays in Jam Boy's experience? How would it change if it happened somewhere else?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, even if they differ from yours. Ask them to imagine themselves as Jam Boy, and explore what decisions they would make in his situation. Highlight the importance of listening to advice and how it's okay to feel scared sometimes. Make connections between the story and real-life situations that involve risk and safety. Finally, emphasize the importance of learning from experiences, just like Jam Boy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Caution and awareness
Explanation: The story follows a young mouse who recklessly ventures out into the night and faces dangers, emphasizing the importance of being cautious and aware of surroundings.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by staying vigilant and making safe choices in unfamiliar or potentially hazardous environments, such as crossing the street or navigating crowded areas.
Example Lesson: Learning from mistakes
Explanation: The protagonist’s experiences teach readers that errors can serve as valuable learning opportunities.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that making mistakes is a natural part of learning and growth, encouraging them to embrace challenges and learn from their outcomes.
Example Lesson: Bravery and responsibility
Explanation: Despite initial reckless actions, the young mouse takes brave steps to rectify the situation, highlighting the traits of courage and accountability.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing consequences and acting bravely to correct their mistakes, relevant in situations like owning up to accidental mishaps or standing up for themselves and others.
Example Lesson: Protective instincts
Explanation: The older, wiser mice intervene to save the young mouse, demonstrating protective and nurturing behaviors.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of looking out for others, particularly younger or weaker individuals, fostering empathy and protective behaviors in group settings.
Example Lesson: Importance of community
Explanation: The story illustrates how the mouse community bands together in times of danger, emphasizing collective support and unity.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to appreciate and contribute to their own communities, whether family, school, or friends, emphasizing cooperation and mutual support.