The Buffalo in the Mall
on Goodreads (6)
What’s inside...
A child explains the many reasons why a buffalo makes a better pet than more conventional choices.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What would you do if you found a buffalo in a mall?
How do you think the buffalo felt being in such an unusual place for it?
What are some ways the people in the story could help the buffalo?
Can you think of a time when you were in a new place? How did you feel?
What did you learn from the story about helping others in unexpected situations?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the emotions of both the buffalo and the people in the story to deepen empathy skills.
Discuss the importance of helping others in unexpected situations, relating it to real-life instances your child might encounter.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings to the story to foster creativity and problem-solving.
Use expressive reading to make the story more engaging and fun, altering your voice for different characters.
Relate the story to personal experiences where your family encountered something unexpected and discuss the outcomes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: The story portrays various animals from different habitats all managing to coexist peacefully in an unusual setting—a mall. This setup underlines the importance of accepting and valuing diverse individuals.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the differences in the people around them, understanding that everyone has unique traits that contribute positively to the community.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: When the buffalo and other animals find themselves lost in the mall, they must strategize and collaborate to find their way back to their rightful homes, showcasing effective problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to apply critical thinking and teamwork in solving their daily challenges, whether at home, school, or in social settings.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Characters in the book take responsibility for their actions leading to their predicament and work together to rectify the situation, emphasizing accountability.
Real-World Application: Kids are taught the importance of owning up to their mistakes and working towards a solution, which is vital for personal development and social interactions.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: As the animals navigate the unfamiliar environment of the mall, they adapt to their new surroundings to make the best of the situation.
Real-World Application: This lesson prepares children to be flexible and adaptable in changing circumstances, a crucial skill in the fast-paced world.
Example Lesson: Compassion
Explanation: The story highlights acts of kindness among the animals, despite their differences, fostering a spirit of help and cooperation.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of compassion and helping others in need, encouraging them to be empathetic and supportive in their everyday interactions.