Owl Takes Charge
Percy The Park Keeper Series
What’s inside...
Everyone's favourite, Percy the Park Keeper is now featured in a new TV episode based on this title, still showcasing Nick Butterworth's beautiful artwork. When Percy catches a cold, he is hesitant to rest as there are many tasks to be completed. However, Owl insists that he rest and, with the help of other animals, attempts to complete Percy's chores. Unfortunately, Owl's poor memory leads to confusion and mix-ups. Recommended for ages 3-7.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Percy The Park Keeper
Owl
Discussion points
How do you think Owl felt when he took charge of the park? Can you describe a time when you felt similar?
What are some ways Owl helped the other animals? What would you do if you were in his place?
Why is teamwork important in solving problems, based on what happened in the story?
How did the other animals react to Owl's leadership? How does it feel when others support your ideas?
What do you think could happen next if the story continued? What adventures could Owl and his friends have?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate personal experiences to Owl’s situation to deepen understanding and empathy.
Discuss the importance of helping and teamwork as illustrated in the book, applying these concepts to real-life situations your child might face.
Ask follow-up questions to your child’s responses to encourage critical thinking and extended conversation.
Positively affirm your child's insights to boost confidence and create an open, communicative environment.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'Owl Takes Charge', Owl steps up to maintain order among the forest animals, teaching the importance of taking responsibility.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking charge of small tasks at home, like cleaning up toys or helping set the dinner table.
Example Lesson: Cooperation
Explanation: Throughout the book, Owl encourages the animals to work together to solve problems, highlighting the value of cooperation.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be mirrored in a child's life during group activities in school or play, to promote working harmoniously with others.
Example Lesson: Leadership
Explanation: Owl demonstrates leadership qualities by guiding and helping the other animals, reinforcing positive leadership.
Real-World Application: Children can emulate these leadership skills during team sports or group projects, by guiding peers towards common goals.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: When faced with chaos, Owl bravely takes control, exemplifying courage in difficult situations.
Real-World Application: Kids can show courage by facing new challenges at school or in social settings, standing up for what's right or trying new activities.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: The story showcases Owl using clever strategies to handle unexpected problems, teaching problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think critically and come up with solutions during conflicts with friends or challenges in schoolwork.