Not part of a series
A Wolf Called Fire
What’s inside...
A Wolf Called Fire, written by Rosanne Parry, is a gripping tale of a young wolf named Warm who, after the scattering of his pack, must lead and protect four pups. Set in the wilderness, this story is a sequel to the bestseller A Wolf Called Wander and illustrates Warm's journey as he discovers his leadership style, which contrasts with the aggressive tactics of his forebears. Inspired by a real Yellowstone wolf, Warm chooses a path of mentorship and collaboration, becoming a revered leader of the largest pack in Yellowstone. The book, enriched with black-and-white illustrations and extensive back matter including a map, is both an adventure and a deep dive into the dynamics of wolf packs and leadership styles.
Age
8-12
Length
256 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Fire the Wolf felt when he was trying to find his way home?
What do you think makes Fire brave? Can you think of a time you had to be brave?
Why is it important to help others, like how Fire helps his friends in the story?
What do you think the forest symbolizes in the story? What does our 'forest' look like in real life?
How do you think the story would change if it was from the hunter's point of view?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading techniques, changing your tone and volume to match the story's events, to keep your child engaged.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next in the story. This not only keeps them engaged but also stimulates critical thinking.
Relate the story’s themes to your child’s experiences, such as discussing a time they helped someone or faced a challenge.
Encourage drawing or acting out favorite scenes, which helps in making the story’s themes more tangible and understood.
Pause at key moments in the story to discuss characters' feelings and choices, helping your child develop empathy and decision-making skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Fire, faces various challenges in the wild but continues to push forward despite fears.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing their fears and overcoming obstacles, which can help them tackle challenges at school or in social situations.
Example Lesson: The significance of friendship
Explanation: Fire forms bonds with other animals, showcasing how relationships can offer support and companionship.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value friendships and teaches them how to be supportive friends in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Respecting nature
Explanation: Throughout the book, Fire interacts with his environment with care, highlighting the importance of conservation and respect for wildlife.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the environment and understand the impact of their actions on nature, promoting eco-friendly behaviors.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Fire shows empathy towards other characters' struggles, teaching the importance of understanding others’ feelings.
Real-World Application: This can foster a sense of empathy in children, aiding their emotional development and enhancing their social interactions.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: As Fire encounters new environments, he learns to adapt, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson highlights the importance of being flexible and adjusting to new situations, a vital skill for personal and academic growth.