The Old Man and the Bear
An Easy-To-Read Book Series
What’s inside...
Old Mahony and Big Bill the bear learn a lesson about working together when their efforts to each catch more salmon than the other leads to trouble.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
42 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the bear learned from the old man?
How do you think the old man felt when he first met the bear?
Why is the friendship between the old man and the bear important?
How did the characters change from the beginning to the end of the story?
What would you have done if you were in the old man's place?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child how they felt about the story and the characters. Share your own thoughts to create an open dialogue. Encourage your child to think about the emotions and motivations behind the characters' actions. Use the illustrations in the book to point out moments of friendship and lessons learned. Encourage your child to think about what makes a good friend, relating it to their own experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and kindness
Explanation: In 'The Old Man and the Bear,' the old man cares for the injured bear, demonstrating compassion.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of helping others in need, which they can apply by being considerate to friends and animals.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: The friendship that forms between the old man and the bear shows that meaningful connections can come from unexpected places.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be open to making friends in various settings and with different types of people.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Despite his initial fear, the old man helps the bear, illustrating courage in the face of fear.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to confront their own fears, whether trying something new or standing up for what's right.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The old man's interaction with the bear underlines a respect for wildlife and natural habitats.
Real-World Application: Instills in children the importance of preserving nature and treating all living beings with respect.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the story, both characters must navigate challenges, highlighting problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to apply thinking skills to overcome obstacles in school and in play.