The Scarecrow
What’s inside...
The book tells a heartwarming story of a scarecrow that forms an unlikely friendship with a baby crow that falls from its nest. Regardless of their inherently different natures, they bond and care for each other, embodying the serene beauty of autumn and the values of friendship and compassion. A Junior Library Guild Selection. All the animals know not to mess with old Scarecrow. But when a small, scared crow falls from midair, Scarecrow does the strangest thing. Bestselling author Beth Ferry and the widely acclaimed Fan Brothers present this tender and affectionate tale that reminds us of the comforting power of friendship and the joy of helping others.
Discussion points
How do you think the scarecrow feels throughout the story?
What does the scarecrow’s friendship teach us about how we treat others?
Can you think of a time when you felt like the scarecrow?
Why do you think the scarecrow is important to the farm?
How does the scarecrow change from the beginning of the book to the end?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the scarecrow’s shoes to deepen empathy. Discuss the emotions and transformations of the scarecrow. Highlight the significance of friendship and kindness. Ask your child to draw parallels between their experiences and the scarecrow’s story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness and compassion
Explanation: In the story, the Scarecrow shows great kindness to the small, helpless crow, despite his role as a figure meant to scare away birds. This unexpected friendship highlights the Scarecrow's compassionate nature.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to show kindness to those who may seem different or out of place, and can understand that compassion should extend to all living beings, regardless of their roles or appearances.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, the relationship between the Scarecrow and the crow develops into a heartwarming friendship that benefits both characters, showing children the mutual benefits of close bonds.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to cherish and nurture their friendships, understanding that true friends are there to support each other in good times and bad.
Example Lesson: Courage to defy stereotypes
Explanation: The Scarecrow acts contrary to what is expected of him by nurturing the crow, demonstrating that it's okay to break away from stereotypical roles and behaviors.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be true to themselves and act according to what they feel is right, even if it means standing out from the crowd or going against the norm.
Example Lesson: The power of selflessness
Explanation: The Scarecrow sacrifices his own well-being for the sake of the crow's safety and health, showcasing the profound impact of putting others' needs before one's own.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think about the welfare of others and to act selflessly, enhancing their emotional and social development.