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The Pug Who Wanted to be an Elf

#8 of 12 in Pug Who Wanted Series

4.21
on Goodreads (68)

What’s inside...

Have yourself a Peggy little Christmas! The world's favourite pug, Peggy, is back with a funny and festive story. Peggy and her family have won a dream winter holiday to Lapland, but sadly, Dad can't go with them due to work commitments. Chloe is upset because their trip won't be as special if the entire family isn't together for Christmas. Peggy knows there's only one person who can help – Santa Claus! Can Peggy find a way to become an elf and work some Christmas magic to unite her family for the holidays?
Series reading

Non-Sequential

Age

6-10

Length

192 pages

Text complexity

Discussion points

Why do you think the pug wanted to be an elf?
How do you think the pug felt when he was trying to be something he wasn't?
What did the pug learn about himself by the end of the story?
Can you think of a time when you wanted to be like someone else? How did that make you feel?
What would you do if you were in the pug's place?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child how they feel about the pug's journey, relating it to their own experiences of self-acceptance and ambition. Encourage them to think about the importance of being true to oneself, and how everyone has unique strengths. Use follow-up questions to dive deeper into your child’s thoughts and feelings, fostering a connection between their personal experiences and the pug’s story.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: Embracing Individuality
Explanation: The Pug in the story wants to be something that is uncharacteristic for a pug, an elf. Throughout his journey, he learns to embrace his unique desire and discovers his own way to achieve it.
Real-World Application: Children will learn to accept and celebrate their own uniqueness and the differences of others around them, fostering a sense of self-confidence and open-mindedness.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Despite facing challenges and doubts from others, the Pug perseveres in his ambition to become an elf. His resilience demonstrates the value of persistence.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to keep trying and not give up on their dreams or goals, despite obstacles or discouragements they might encounter.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Problem Solving
Explanation: The Pug uses his creativity to find ways to fit into the elf world, using his strengths and talents in novel ways.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of using their imagination and creativity to solve problems and adapt to new situations, which are valuable skills in everyday tasks and challenges.
Example Lesson: Value of Hard Work
Explanation: The Pug's journey to becoming an elf is not easy; it requires effort and dedication. His hard work eventually pays off, teaching the value of diligence.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to work hard in their studies, sports, or hobbies, understanding that effort is often necessary to achieve success.

The Pug Who Wanted to be an Elf by Bella Swift