Why Dolphins Call: A Story of Dionysus (Gods of Olympus)
#3 of 5 in The Heroes of Olympus Series
What’s inside...
Kidnapped by pirates, young Dionysus uses his divine powers to transform his cold-hearted captors into friendly dolphins.
Discussion points
Why do you think dolphins are important in the story of Dionysus?
How do the actions of Dionysus teach us about kindness and courage?
What would you do if you were in Dionysus's place during his adventures?
How do you think the story would change if it happened in today's world?
What was your favorite part of the story, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story, asking them how they might feel or react in similar situations.
Discuss the moral values presented in the story, such as bravery and compassion, and ask your child how these values can be applied in their daily life.
Relate the mythological elements to real-life scenarios to make it more tangible for the child, like comparing the communication among dolphins to how we communicate with friends and family.
After reading, use creative activities like drawing scenes from the book or creating alternative endings to reinforce comprehension and personal connection to the story.
Validate all responses from your child to make them feel comfortable and open about expressing their thoughts and interpretations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Why Dolphins Call,' Dionysus learns the importance of listening to others and understanding their feelings, which helps him solve problems among his friends.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to listen actively to their peers and family members, fostering stronger relationships and resolving conflicts with empathy.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Challenges
Explanation: Dionysus faces various challenges throughout the story, showing bravery and determination. His journey encourages readers to tackle their fears head-on.
Real-World Application: This narrative can inspire children to confront their own fears and challenges in school or other activities, understanding that courage is a vital part of growth.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, Dionysus collaborates with other gods and creatures to achieve common goals, highlighting the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can learn from this by engaging in team activities at school or in extracurricular settings, appreciating the strength found in working together.
Example Lesson: Respecting Nature
Explanation: Dionysus and his companions interact with the natural world with reverence, teaching the importance of environmental conservation.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the impact of their actions on the environment and encourage responsible behaviors like recycling and conserving water.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The protagonist's inquisitive nature leads him to explore and learn from different situations, emphasizing the value of curiosity.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to ask questions and seek knowledge in all aspects of life, enhancing their educational experience and broadening their worldview.