The Woods
What’s inside...
Here are the woods. The woods are home to three foxes on a hunt for rabbits. Three foxes that don't realize someone might be following them… From the author of The Cave, this is a fantastically funny cat-and-mouse (or fox-and-rabbit) story with a not-so-fluffy twist. The foxes follow some helpful signs over the tallest trees, under the carrot fields and through the pumpkin patch, but there's no sign of any rabbits. What on earth has happened to them? And why are there strange eyes following them from the trees? This is a great title for entertaining children indoors: they will love outwitting the foxes - who continually say, 'No rabbits here' - by spotting the rabbits in each colorful illustration! Don't miss Rob Hodgson's other hilarious books: The Cave, which was chosen for the Booktrust Time to Read Campaign 2019, and My Best Friend.
Age
1-3
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the animals in the woods feel about their home?
How do you think the story would change if it were set in a different place?
What is your favorite part of the book, and why?
If you could talk to one of the characters, who would it be and what would you ask them?
How do you think the character feels at the end of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine the sights, sounds, and smells of the woods described in the book to enhance sensory engagement.
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. This can help deepen their connection to the story and its characters.
Relate the themes or situations in the book to familiar experiences in your child’s life to make the content more relatable and meaningful.
Use expressive read-aloud techniques, changing your tone and volume to match the mood of the story, to make the reading experience more dynamic and engaging.
Encourage your child to predict what might happen next at several points in the story, fostering critical thinking and active engagement.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: In 'The Woods,' the characters embark on an adventurous journey, showcasing their curiosity about the unknown.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore the world around them, ask questions, and learn through their experiences.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fears
Explanation: The story portrays characters facing and overcoming their fears, demonstrating bravery.
Real-World Application: This can help children confront their own fears and understand that it's okay to be scared, and how they can overcome it.
Example Lesson: Friendship and Cooperation
Explanation: The characters in the book work together to navigate the challenges they face in the woods, illustrating the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of collaborating and supporting others, skills that are essential in both school and daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: Through vivid illustrations and interactions within the woods, the book instills a respect for the environment.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be mindful of their environment, promoting eco-friendly practices from a young age.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout their journey, the characters encounter various problems that they need to solve.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to think critically and develop problem-solving skills, which are crucial in academic and personal growth.