Anyone but Ivy Pocket
#1 of 3 in Ivy Pocket Series
What’s inside...
Ivy Pocket is a twelve-year-old maid of no importance with a lofty opinion of herself. After being abandoned in Paris by Countess Carbunkle, Ivy finds herself penniless and homeless until she is summoned by the dying Duchess of Trinity. Offered £500, Ivy agrees to transport the Duchess's most valuable possession, the Clock Diamond, to England and deliver it to Matilda Butterfield on her twelfth birthday. However, Ivy quickly becomes entangled in a conspiracy filled with mischief, mayhem, and murder. Illustrated by Barbara Cantini, 'Anyone But Ivy Pocket' marks the start of Ivy's humorous and perilous journey to discover her true identity.
Character compass
Ivy Pocket
Matilda Butterfield
Miss Always
Mrs. Butterfield
Discussion points
Why do you think Ivy Pocket behaves the way she does around others?
How does Ivy handle challenging situations, and what can we learn from her?
If you were in Ivy's shoes, how would you have handled the mystery of the Clock Diamond?
What are some ways Ivy shows her unique qualities, and why is it important to embrace our individuality?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their opinions about Ivy’s decisions throughout the story, fostering critical thinking.
Discuss the concept of responsibility and bravery as portrayed by Ivy, relating it to personal experiences your child might have had.
Highlight scenes where Ivy interacts with other characters, asking your child how they might have felt in similar interactions.
Create a fun atmosphere by perhaps role-playing some scenes, which can help deepen your child's understanding and connection to the book’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Ivy Pocket, the protagonist, is entrusted with a precious necklace which she must deliver. Throughout the tale, she exhibits a strong sense of duty towards this task.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of taking responsibility seriously and understanding the trust placed in them when given important tasks.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Ivy displays bravery as she faces daunting challenges and mysterious adversaries on her journey.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be brave in confronting their own challenges and to stand firm even when situations are intimidating.
Example Lesson: Self-awareness
Explanation: Throughout the narrative, Ivy learns more about her own strengths and weaknesses which aids her personal growth.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to reflect on their capabilities and areas for improvement, fostering self-improvement and personal development.
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, Ivy continues to push forward to fulfill her commitment, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of persisting in the face of adversity and not giving up when facing obstacles.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Ivy learns to understand and sympathize with the situations and emotions of others throughout her adventures.
Real-World Application: This underscores the significance of empathy in everyday interactions, teaching children to consider and respect others’ feelings and perspectives.