Silly Little Mouse and Other Poems
on Goodreads (33)
What’s inside...
Samuel Marshak, born in 1887, began his literary career with the encouragement of Maxim Gorky. He first published in 1907 with his own lyrics and translations. Marshak is renowned for his contributions to juvenile literature, emphasizing respect for skilled and creative work. He also wrote plays for children based on Russian fairy tales, such as 'Twelve Months,' which earned him the Stalin Prize in 1946.
Age
9-12
Length
76 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Silly Little Mouse
Mother Mouse
Discussion points
What do you think the Silly Little Mouse will do next after each poem?
How did the poem make you feel?
Which character in the poem would you like to meet and why?
What do you think the moral of the poem is?
How would you rewrite the ending of your favorite poem in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading each poem, ask your child to predict what the poem might be about based on the title.
After reading, relate the themes or characters of the poem to personal experiences or similar stories known to the child.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene or character from the poem to deepen their connection and understanding.
Discuss the emotions depicted in the poem and ask your child to talk about a time they felt similar emotions.
Create a fun rhythm or song using lines from the poems to make the reading experience lively and memorable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Silly Little Mouse and Other Poems uses endearing characters to teach children how understanding others' feelings is important.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by recognizing emotions in classmates and family members, helping them build stronger, more empathetic relationships.
Example Lesson: Curiosity
Explanation: Through the character of the mouse, the poems encourage exploring the world with enthusiasm and inquiry.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to ask questions about their surrounding environment and seek out knowledge actively, both at school and home.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The poems show characters facing challenges and overcoming them with perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their own challenges, whether in learning new skills or dealing with social situations, and understand that persistence leads to achievement.
Example Lesson: Joy of Reading
Explanation: The playful and rhythmic nature of the poems makes reading a fun activity, attracting children to literature.
Real-World Application: This can foster a lifelong love for reading, enhancing literacy skills and sparking imagination.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: Many poems explore themes of friendship and cooperation among different characters.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of working together and supporting one another, applicable in school projects and playground activities.