Riki Tiki Tavi (Favourite Tales)
on Goodreads (61)
What’s inside...
This book tells the story of [main character] and their adventure [describe adventure without significant detail or quotation]. Over the course of the book, [main character] [describe character arc without plot details]. In the end, [describe outcome without spoilers].
Age
7-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Riki Tiki Tavi
Teddy'S Father
Teddy
Darzee
Nagaina
Nag
Discussion points
Why do you think Rikki chose to protect the family from the cobras?
How did the different animals in the garden react to Rikki's presence?
What can we learn about bravery and friendship from Rikki's adventures?
How do you think the story would change if Rikki wasn’t there?
What qualities do you admire in Rikki and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about how teamwork and courage are portrayed in the story, and relate it to their own experiences with friends and challenges.
Ask your child to imagine alternative scenarios within the story to enhance creative thinking.
Use expressive reading to highlight suspense and the personality traits of different characters, making the story more engaging and relatable.
Praise your child’s responses to cultivate a positive reading environment that encourages deeper reflection on the story’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: Riki Tiki Tavi showcases courage as the protagonist, a small mongoose, fearlessly protects his human family from dangerous cobras. Despite his small size, his bravery makes a significant difference.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing fears and standing up for others, regardless of their own size or strength, which can be applied in situations such as standing up against bullying.
Example Lesson: Loyalty and Protection
Explanation: The story emphasizes the loyalty Riki has towards the family he considers his own. His protective instincts drive him to confront threats much larger than himself.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of loyalty and the importance of looking after those who care for them, which can translate into caring for siblings and friends in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Cleverness and Resourcefulness
Explanation: Riki Tiki Tavi uses his wits to strategically defeat the cobras, showing that intelligence can be as powerful as physical strength.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think creatively to solve problems, highlighting that sometimes, quick thinking and planning can resolve conflicts more effectively than force.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: Though Riki is capable, the support from other animals like Darzee the bird and Chuchundra the muskrat plays a crucial role in his victory. This demonstrates that teamwork can accomplish what might be impossible alone.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving common goals, whether in school projects or sports.
Example Lesson: Understanding Natural Instincts
Explanation: The narrative exhibits different animals following their instincts, which sometimes leads to conflict. Riki's role as a protector naturally pits him against the cobras, who also follow their instincts to survive.
Real-World Application: Teaches children about natural roles and instincts in animals, fostering respect and understanding for wildlife and the complexities of natural ecosystems.