STOLEN! A Pony Called Pebbles (Rainbow Street Shelter)
#5 of 6 in Rainbow Street Shelter Series
What’s inside...
Amy, a horse enthusiast, goes on a picnic with her friend Hannah's family and hears a horse neigh in the park. Though Hannah initially thinks Amy is imagining things, she soon hears it too. With assistance from Mona at the Rainbow Street Shelter, they ensure the horse's safety. Amy secretly hopes the owner doesn't return so she can continue visiting the pony.
Character compass
Amy
Discussion points
How did you feel when Pebbles was missing, and why do you think you felt that way?
What would you do if you found a lost animal like Amy did? What steps would you take to help?
Why do you think it is important to take care of animals? How do you think Pebbles felt throughout the story?
What does this story teach us about responsibility and compassion?
If you could talk to any character in the book, who would it be and what would you ask them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they think the book might be about based on the cover and title. This activates their imagination and sets the stage for attentive reading.
While reading, pause at key moments to ask your child to predict what might happen next. This keeps them engaged and thinking critically about the storyline.
After reading, relate the story to your child's life by asking if they have ever experienced something similar to what the characters in the book went through.
Encourage your child to express what they liked or didn’t like about the book. This helps them articulate their thoughts and connect emotionally with the reading material.
Discuss the actions of the characters and ask your child how they would respond in similar situations to foster empathy and moral reasoning.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Amy, the young protagonist, learns to take care of Pebbles, the stolen pony, demonstrating the importance of responsibility in caring for another life.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking on more responsibilities at home, such as caring for a pet or helping with chores.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The book explores Amy's feelings of empathy for Pebbles, who is in a strange and uncomfortable situation after being stolen. Amy's supportive actions are a great example of empathy in practice.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to recognize and respond to the feelings of others, whether it’s comforting a friend or understanding a sibling’s perspective.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: Amy faces the challenge of helping Pebbles return to her rightful home, which involves critical thinking and problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This lesson equips children with the skills to approach their own problems, whether academic or personal, in a structured and thoughtful manner.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Throughout the story, Amy shows courage when she decides to protect and secure a safe environment for Pebbles despite the challenges.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to stand up for what is right and to face challenging situations with bravery.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: The bond formed between Amy and Pebbles highlights the value of friendship and mutual care, portrayed through their loyal and caring interactions.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of forming and maintaining positive relationships, and being a good friend in times of need.