The Hero Puppy
Animal Stories Series
What’s inside...
In 'The Hero Puppy,' Holly Webb tells the heartwarming tale of a young child named Sam and his journey with Scout, a brave and intelligent puppy training to be a service dog. This touching story not only explores the themes of friendship and responsibility but also provides young readers insights into the importance of service animals in society. Perfect for children starting to learn about empathy and community roles, this book encourages both personal and social development. When Billie's grandpa falls ill, her parents go to take care of him, while she and her new puppy Travis go to stay with her aunt. Billie is worried about her grandpa and she's glad to have Travis with her. But the puppy is anxious about the unfamiliar surroundings and a long period of rain and thunder leaves him terrified. Then just as Billie and Travis begin to settle in, the entire neighbourhood is flooded, with Travis stuck at home on his own. Will anyone be able to rescue him in time?
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-10
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes the puppy in the story a hero?
How did the puppy's actions make you feel?
If you were in the story, what would you have done to help the puppy?
Can you think of anyone you know who is like the Hero Puppy? What makes them similar?
Tip: Role play these questions
Pause at key moments in the story to ask your child how they think the puppy feels, promoting empathy and understanding.
Relate the puppy's bravery to real-life situations your child may face, fostering a connection between the story and their own experiences.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene. This helps them express their understanding and feelings about the story creatively.
Discuss the importance of courage and helping others, linking these themes to the child’s world.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: The story follows the journey of a puppy who becomes a hero by helping others, portraying empathy and compassion through its actions and decisions.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of understanding and sharing the feelings of others, encouraging them to be empathetic towards friends and family in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Bravery and Courage
Explanation: The Hero Puppy faces various challenges and demonstrates courage by overcoming fears to help those in need.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their own fears and stand up for what is right, be it at school, in the playground, or in new situations.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The puppy takes on responsibilities and learns from them, showing the value of being dependable and accountable for one’s actions.
Real-World Application: Children are motivated to take on small responsibilities at home or school, learning the importance of fulfilling tasks and the satisfaction it brings.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, the puppy collaborates with other characters to achieve common goals, illustrating effective teamwork.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to cooperate and work effectively with their peers in team settings, whether in group projects or during playtime.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The puppy encounters problems and creatively finds solutions, demonstrating critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children learn to apply critical thinking to overcome challenges and obstacles they face in real life, enhancing their problem-solving capabilities.