One Dog and His Boy
What’s inside...
All Hal had ever wanted was a dog, but his mother always refused. On his 10th birthday, his parents allow him to pick a puppy from Easy Pets, unaware it's a rent-a-pet agency. Hal chooses an odd-looking terrier named Fleck, believing they would be together forever. However, he is devastated to find out that Fleck must be returned. When Hal wakes up and finds Fleck gone, he decides they must run away to stay together. Eva Ibbotson's final novel, a heartfelt tale filled with humor, beautifully captures the bond between a boy and his dog.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-10
Length
271 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made Hal and Fleck's friendship so special? How did they help each other throughout the story?
Why do you think the other dogs in the story wanted to find a true home? How did their feelings change from the beginning to the end of the book?
How would you feel if you were in Hal’s shoes, and had to return Fleck to the Easy Pets agency? What would you have done differently?
What does this story teach us about responsibility and caring for others, including pets?
Can you think of any ways we can help animals in our community, just like Hal helped Fleck?
Tip: Role play these questions
Show genuine interest in your child's responses and encourage them to elaborate on their thoughts and feelings about the story.
Use the questions as a guide but allow the conversation to flow naturally. If your child brings up a related topic, explore that further.
Discuss parallel situations in real life to deepen your child’s understanding and empathy.
Praise your child’s insights and contributions to the conversation to boost their confidence and engagement.
Consider revisiting the same questions after some time; children might have different perspectives as they reflect more on the story or grow older.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and loyalty
Explanation: In 'One Dog and His Boy', the bond between Hal and his dog Fleck showcases the deep connection and loyalty that can exist between a person and a pet. Despite numerous challenges, Hal goes to great lengths to be reunited with Fleck, demonstrating unwavering loyalty and commitment.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of being loyal and maintaining friendships in their own lives, understanding that genuine relationships require effort and dedication.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: Throughout the story, Hal shows empathy towards Fleck and other dogs that are bred for profit, understanding their need for a loving home. His actions teach us that understanding others' feelings and situations is crucial.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to recognize emotions and needs in others, leading to more compassionate interactions with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Hal's journey to reunite with Fleck, despite obstacles from adults and challenging circumstances, highlights his resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: This story can inspire children to persist and remain determined when facing their own challenges or when things do not go as planned.
Example Lesson: The consequences of deception
Explanation: The narrative also touches on the repercussions of dishonesty, seen in the deceitful actions of adults like Hal’s parents who rent Fleck instead of truly owning him, which ultimately leads to conflict and distress.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of honesty and the potential negative outcomes that lying can bring about in their relationships and trust with others.