The Pickle Thief
What’s inside...
When a big jar of pickles goes missing, seven-year-old Amelia is determined to find out who took them. As she looks for clues, and questions those around her, she comes to understand that a lesson learned is worth much more than a few juicy pickles. The Pickle Thief is a story of one girl's passion for pickles, and how things aren't always what they seem, as she conducts an investigation to track down a cunning bandit who also loves the satisfying crunch of a plump pickle. It's a mystery you can relish.
Discussion points
Why do you think the character decided to steal the pickles? What other choices could they have made?
How did the other characters react to the pickle thief? What does this teach us about forgiveness and understanding?
What would you do if you were in a similar situation as the pickle thief? Can you think of a time when you faced a tough decision?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in a different place or time?
What do you think happened after the story ended? Let’s imagine some possible future events for the characters.
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a warm and curious tone during your discussion to create a safe space for your child to explore their thoughts and feelings.
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them what they would do in the characters' shoes, which builds empathy and decision-making skills.
Highlight themes of the story, such as honesty, consequences, and redemption, to deepen your child’s understanding of the moral lessons.
Relate the story’s events to personal experiences or familiar situations to make the discussion more relevant and engaging for your child.
Praise your child’s responses and insights to foster confidence and a positive attitude towards reading and discussions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Honesty
Explanation: The story demonstrates the importance of honesty when the protagonist decides to confess to taking the pickles.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of being truthful in their own actions, helping them build trust with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The main character faces the challenge of replacing the pickles he took, showcasing effective problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to think critically and creatively solve problems they encounter at school or home.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Throughout the book, the protagonist learns to take responsibility for his actions, which is a crucial part of his growth.
Real-World Application: Children understand the importance of accepting responsibility for their actions, contributing to their development as accountable individuals.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The book explores the theme of empathy as the protagonist understands the consequences of his actions on others.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children grasp the importance of considering other people's feelings and perspectives in daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Forgiveness
Explanation: As the story unfolds, characters show forgiveness, teaching the reader about reconciliation.
Real-World Application: Children learn the power of forgiving others, fostering a supportive and understanding environment around them.