Tortoise Goes to the Vet: Radha – Indian Star Tortoise
on Goodreads (12)
What’s inside...
Tortoise Goes to the Vet is about Radha, an Indian Star tortoise who needed a veterinary doctor to trim her crooked beak that prevented her from eating properly. This experience helped Radha understand that she needed help with her disability and that her family accepts her the way she is. She gains confidence that her mom can help her by trimming her beak regularly, eliminating the need for frequent vet visits.
Age
0-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Radha
Discussion points
What do you think Radha the tortoise felt when she had to visit the vet?
Why is it important for animals like Radha to see the vet?
How do you think visiting the vet helps Radha and other animals?
Can you think of a time you felt similar to Radha? What happened and how did you feel?
What are some ways we can help animals feel safe and cared for?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by recounting the plot of the book together with your child, focusing on Radha’s visit to the vet. Use expressive, empathetic language to help your child connect with Radha’s experiences. Highlight the importance of caring for animals and how vets help keep them healthy. Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the story, validating their emotions. If possible, relate the story to personal experiences or observations involving pets or animals to deepen the connection.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The story shows Radha the tortoise feeling scared about visiting the vet. Children learn about recognizing and understanding the feelings of others through Radha's experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by acknowledging and responding to the feelings of their friends and pets, helping them develop compassion.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Taking care of Radha reinforces the concept of responsibility. The owner ensures Radha gets the proper medical attention she needs, demonstrating attentive care.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of regular healthcare and can adopt responsible behaviors in taking care of their own pets or even themselves.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fear
Explanation: Radha learns to overcome her fear of the vet with the support of her owner, illustrating that facing fears can lead to positive outcomes.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to face their own fears, such as going to the doctor or trying new activities, teaching them resilience.
Example Lesson: Curiosity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Radha’s curious nature about her environment and the vet’s office is highlighted, which fosters a love of learning.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and ask questions about their surroundings, aiding their cognitive development and understanding of the world.