Armadillo and Hare and the Flamingo Affair
Armadillo and Hare Series
What’s inside...
Armadillo and Hare are best friends despite their differences, with Armadillo often grumpy and Hare more cheerful. Their friendship is tested when a fabulous new friend, Flamingo, starts singing and dancing in the Big Forest. This charming and delightful tale, in the tradition of Cynthia Rylant and Arnold Lobel, explores the themes of friendship, acceptance, and the beauty of differences with humor and heart.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
153 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes Armadillo and Hare such good friends despite being so different?
How do you think the arrival of the flamingo changed the dynamics among the characters? What would you do if a new friend joined your group?
What are some ways that the characters show kindness and understanding to each other in the story?
If you could create your own adventure for Armadillo and Hare, what would it look like?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate personal experiences to those of Armadillo and Hare, enhancing their connection with the characters.
After reading a chapter, pause to discuss the motivations behind characters' actions; this promotes empathy and critical thinking.
Promote creativity by having your child draw or write an additional scene or ending for the story.
Use the book as an opportunity to discuss the value of diversity and inclusion, emphasizing how differences can strengthen friendships.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: Armadillo and Hare demonstrate a deep bond and mutual respect for each other despite their differences, showcasing how true friendship can thrive among diverse individuals.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of embracing and respecting differences in their friends, leading to more inclusive and supportive relationships in real life.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, Armadillo and Hare face various challenges which they must solve together. This helps children understand the benefits of collaborative problem solving.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to work together with peers or family members to find solutions to everyday problems, promoting teamwork and critical thinking.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The characters often step into each other’s shoes, trying to understand and feel what the other is experiencing, which is a crucial aspect of their interactions.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of empathy by considering and respecting others’ feelings and perspectives, which is vital for cultivating compassionate relationships.
Example Lesson: Joy in Simple Pleasures
Explanation: Armadillo and Hare find happiness in simple activities and the natural world around them, showing children that joy doesn’t require grand or expensive things.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to appreciate and find happiness in the simple, everyday things, fostering gratitude and a positive outlook.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The characters often engage in imaginative play and creative problem-solving, which sparks curiosity and inventive thinking.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to use their imagination and creativity in play and learning, enhancing cognitive development and problem-solving skills.