Perfect Soup
What’s inside...
Murray the mouse strives for perfection, especially when it comes to making his Perfect Soup on a snowy winter day. However, he lacks a crucial ingredient - a carrot. Determined, Murray leaves his home to find one, embarking on a journey that involves trading favors with various townspeople. Despite encountering challenges, including a grumpy individual who threatens to derail his plans, Murray finds assistance from a friendly snowman. With vibrant winter landscapes and a cast of quirky characters, 'Perfect Soup' is brought to life by Lisa Moser and Ben Mantle, making it a delightful read for both parents and children.
Age
3-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Murray
Snowman
Discussion points
What do you think makes the soup perfect in the story?
How do you think the characters felt when they worked together?
What would you add to the soup if you were in the story?
Why do you think sharing is important?
How do you feel when you help someone?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they think makes a soup perfect to pique their interest.
While reading, pause to discuss the characters' actions and emotions to deepen understanding of the narrative.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their version of 'perfect soup' and describe which ingredients they would choose.
Use examples from the book to teach the value of cooperation and sharing in everyday life.
Relate the story's themes to your child's experiences to make the discussion more personal and impactful.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Sharing
Explanation: In 'Perfect Soup', characters learn the value of sharing resources to create the perfect soup, highlighting how collaboration can lead to great results.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to share toys, books, or snacks with friends, fostering a sense of community and cooperation.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist faces multiple challenges in gathering the ingredients for the soup but continues to strive towards the goal, demonstrating determination.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of not giving up when facing difficulties, whether it be finishing a puzzle or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Problem Solving
Explanation: The characters use creative solutions to gather all they need for their soup, illustrating the significance of thinking outside the box.
Real-World Application: Children learn to use their imagination to solve problems, whether it’s in playing games or during their studies.
Example Lesson: Value of Community
Explanation: The book showcases how the characters come together with their unique contributions to make the soup, emphasizing community spirit.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to appreciate and engage in community activities, understand the strength in unity, and the joy of working together toward a common goal.
Example Lesson: Kindness and Generosity
Explanation: By the story’s end, all characters exhibit kindness by sharing their ingredients without expecting anything in return, teaching the value of generosity.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to perform acts of kindness in their daily interactions, such as sharing their lunch or helping a friend in need.