Pug: What a Mug! (Little Dogs Rock!)
Little Dogs Rock! Series
on Goodreads (12)
What’s inside...
Profiles the pug dog breed. The story of this fascinating breed began over 2,000 years ago in China where little pugs were kept by monks and emperors as pets. Their primary role was to sit in the laps of royalty, unlike other dogs who were meant to protect sheep or help with hunting. Today, pugs continue to fulfill their original purpose by being the center of attention and sitting in the lap of luxury. The narrative also introduces readers to pugs like Joseph, who enjoys treats like ice cream and watermelon and travels with his owner to hospitals to cheer up patients. The book covers the history of the breed, its physical and mental characteristics, and its suitability as a pet.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the pug in the story is special?
How do the other animals in the story react to the pug's big eyes and wrinkly face?
What are some ways the pug shows its personality?
If you were a character in the book, how would you interact with the pug?
What lessons can we learn from the pug's adventures?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to highlight the pug's adventures and traits, making the story come alive for your child.
Ask your child to describe their favorite part and why it stood out to them, encouraging them to think critically about their preferences.
Relate the story to your child’s experiences with pets or animals to personalize the themes and enhance connection.
Encourage your child to imagine and discuss alternative endings or additional adventures for the pug, fostering creativity and narrative skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-Acceptance
Explanation: The story centers around a pug embracing its unique appearance and features, despite not fitting the conventional idea of 'beauty'.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate their own unique traits and understand that beauty is subjective and not defined by standard norms.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Through interactions between the pug and other characters, children see the importance of understanding and respecting feelings and perspectives different from their own.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this understanding in school or playground settings, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The pug faces challenges due to its unconventional looks but continues to carry itself with positivity, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to persist through their own challenges, whether they're learning new skills or facing social hurdles.
Example Lesson: Joy in Simple Things
Explanation: The pug finds happiness in daily activities and interactions, showing that joy does not always come from material possessions.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to find happiness in everyday life and to value experiences over material goods.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: The story highlights the supportive relationships the pug shares with other dogs, illustrating the importance of friendship.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of building and maintaining friendships, and how these relationships can provide emotional support and joy.