That Pesky Rat
on Goodreads (759)
What’s inside...
This is the funny, touching tale of how a pesky street rat finds home, sweet home. The story explores the rat's longing for creature comforts and to belong to somebody as it observes cozy homes from its crisp packet. The creator of Clarice Bean has created a clever and appealing alley critter that is both hilarious and endearing, capturing the hearts of young readers who will be eager to take him home.
Age
2-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
That Pesky Rat
Discussion points
How do you think the rat feels about not having a name or a permanent home?
What would you name the rat if you could choose a name for him?
Why do you think the rat visits different animals and tries living like them?
How do the different animals’ homes compare to each other, and to the rat's ideal home?
If you could help the rat find the perfect home, what would it be like and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage children to express empathy by asking them how they would feel if they were in the rat’s situation.
Stimulate creativity by having children draw what they think the perfect home for the rat would look like.
Promote critical thinking by discussing the outcomes of the rat's visits to different animals and homes.
Foster problem-solving skills by asking children to think of different ways the rat could find a home.
Facilitate a deeper connection with the character by discussing personal experiences related to belonging and friendship.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'That Pesky Rat', the main character, a rat, seeks a place where he feels loved and appreciated despite being different from pets like cats and dogs. The story demonstrates empathy by encouraging readers to understand the rat's feelings and desire to belong.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to appreciate the feelings and experiences of others, even if they appear different, fostering inclusiveness and understanding in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Hope
Explanation: Despite facing rejection and loneliness, the rat in the story remains hopeful and continually searches for a family that will accept him. This illustrates resilience in the face of challenges.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to remain optimistic and persistent even during difficult times, promoting an attitude of perseverance and hope in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Value of Individuality
Explanation: The rat's unique traits are highlighted throughout the story, teaching that being different is not only okay but valuable. The rat finally finds happiness by embracing his individuality.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to embrace their unique qualities and understand that their individual characteristics are what make them special, boosting self-esteem and self-acceptance.
Example Lesson: Importance of Companionship
Explanation: The story emphasizes the rat's desire for companionship and how it significantly affects his happiness, underscoring the importance of friendship and family.
Real-World Application: This lesson can lead children to value and nurture relationships with their friends and family, understanding the role companionship plays in overall happiness and well-being.