Bandit Laferue
What’s inside...
Bandit Laferue, a real dog, has appointed himself as the voice for DAWGS, aiming to bridge the communication gap between pets and their owners. Believing he understands 'human bark,' Bandit attempts to interpret, but often stumbles. Join him as he navigates through joyful, humorous, and somber moments, encouraging all to 'walk in the paws of DAWGS.'
Age
5-9
Length
19 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made Bandit Laferue decide to become a bandit? Do you think he had other choices?
How did Bandit Laferue's actions affect the other characters in the story? What might he have done differently?
Can you think of a time when you had to make a tough decision like Bandit? What did you decide and why?
How do you think the story would change if it took place in today’s world?
What do you think is the most important lesson Bandit Laferue learned by the end of the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, briefly discuss what being a 'bandit' might mean and what kinds of adventures or challenges a bandit might face.
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they would feel in Bandit Laferue’s situation, fostering deeper connections with the character’s emotions and choices.
Pause at critical moments in the story to ask predictive questions like, 'What do you think Bandit will do next?'
After finishing the book, have your child draw a picture of their favorite scene and explain why they chose it, encouraging them to think critically about the story.
Discuss the moral of the story and how it can apply to real-life situations, helping your child apply lessons from the book to their own experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Honesty is the best policy
Explanation: Bandit Laferue learns the consequences of lying to his friends and ultimately decides to tell the truth, which restores their trust.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of being truthful in their interactions and see how honesty strengthens relationships.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: Throughout the story, Bandit confronts his fear of the dark during his adventures, showing bravery and growth.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to face their own fears, understanding that overcoming them is part of growing up and can lead to new experiences.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: Bandit Laferue makes amends and works together with his friends to solve a problem, showing the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Kids are taught to value and nurture friendships, learning that team effort often leads to the best outcome.
Example Lesson: Effects of kindness
Explanation: When Bandit helps a new character in trouble, he learns how acts of kindness can lead to unexpected rewards and friendships.
Real-World Application: This lesson emphasizes to children how being kind can positively affect their own lives and those around them.
Example Lesson: Learning from mistakes
Explanation: Bandit makes several mistakes during his adventure but uses them as learning opportunities, which ultimately lead to personal growth.
Real-World Application: Teaches children that mistakes are a natural part of life and learning from them is crucial for personal development.