Tabby McTat
#4 of 4 in Tabby McTat Series
What’s inside...
Tabby McTat is a busker's cat who loves singing along with his owner, Fred, as people throw coins in their hat. However, when Fred has an accident, the two are separated, leaving them both struggling to find a way back to each other.
Discussion points
How do you think Tabby McTat felt when he was separated from his friend?
What are some ways Tabby McTat showed he cared for his family?
Why is friendship important in the story and in real life?
What would you do if you were in Tabby McTat's situation and had to make new friends?
How did the characters change from the beginning to the end of the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story by relating to their own experiences with friendship and loss. Ask them to think about how they help their friends or family in times of need, drawing parallels to the book’s themes. Use expressive reading to highlight emotional parts of the story, to better convey the characters' feelings. Lastly, discuss the resolution of the book and what your child thinks about the choices the characters made, fostering critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: In 'Tabby McTat', the affectionate bond between the cat McTat and his owner, the busker, illustrates the deep connections that can form through companionship and shared experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that nurturing friendships is important for emotional support and they should cherish and care for their friends in daily life.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Change
Explanation: When McTat finds himself separated from the busker, he adapts to his new circumstances, showing resilience and the ability to thrive despite changes.
Real-World Application: This story can help children understand that life can bring unexpected changes and adapting to them positively is a key skill.
Example Lesson: Importance of Loyalty
Explanation: Tabby McTat’s quest to reunite with his old friend highlights the theme of loyalty and commitment to those we care about.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of staying connected and being loyal to those who matter to them, even when physically apart.
Example Lesson: Joy of Creativity and Music
Explanation: Music plays a central role in the book, not only bringing the characters together but also enriching their lives, showing how creativity and artistic expression enhance life.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore their own creative interests, whether in music or other forms of art, as a source of joy and personal expression.