Big Wolf and Little Wolf (Big Wolf and Little Wolf, 1)
#1 of 3 in Little Wolf Series
What’s inside...
Big Wolf lives alone and content under a tree on a hill until one day, Little Wolf arrives. Initially wary, Big Wolf grows fond of his companion, sharing his blanket and food with him. However, when Little Wolf suddenly disappears, Big Wolf is overwhelmed with sadness and misses him greatly. He waits hopefully for Little Wolf's return, wondering if their budding friendship will continue. Big Wolf & Little Wolf was a Batchelder Honor Book in 2010. A story about how life changes when one comes to understand the meaning of friendship and sharing.
Character compass
Big Bad Wolf
Little Wolf
Discussion points
How do you think Big Wolf felt when he first saw Little Wolf? Why do you think he chose to watch him from a distance?
What changes do you notice in Big Wolf’s behavior as he spends more time with Little Wolf? What do you think caused these changes?
Why is sharing important in the relationship between Big Wolf and Little Wolf?
How do you think the story would have been different if Big Wolf never allowed Little Wolf to come closer?
Can you think of a time when you made a new friend? How did you feel at first and how did your feelings change as you got to know them better?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by sharing a personal story about making a new friend or adapting to a new situation to make your child feel more connected to the theme.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story by asking them how they would feel in Big Wolf’s or Little Wolf’s position.
Highlight the importance of empathy by discussing how understanding and considering each character’s feelings helps build their friendship.
Use the illustrations in the book to talk about non-verbal cues that indicate how each character is feeling throughout the story.
Wrap up the discussion by relating the story’s themes to your child’s real-life experiences and asking them to think about how they can apply the lessons learned from Big Wolf and Little Wolf in their own lives.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: In 'Big Wolf and Little Wolf,' the story centers around the growing relationship between the two wolves as they learn to live and share space together. Initially hesitant, Big Wolf slowly warms up to Little Wolf's presence, highlighting the dynamics of forming new friendships.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to be open and welcoming to new individuals they meet, whether at school, in the park, or during extracurricular activities, understanding that new friendships can enrich their lives.
Example Lesson: The importance of sharing
Explanation: Throughout the book, Big Wolf demonstrates the act of sharing with Little Wolf, from sharing physical space under a tree to sharing experiences. This acts as a practical example of generosity and cooperation.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children navigate cooperative play and learning to share their own belongings with siblings and peers, fostering a sense of community and teamwork.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of change
Explanation: Big Wolf's initial discomfort with Little Wolf's presence and his eventual acceptance, is a reflection on how change can be embraced. The story provides a narrative on adapting to new situations and relationships.
Real-World Application: Children are often faced with new scenarios—be it moving to a new place, transitioning to a new school, or changes in the family structure. This book teaches them to accept and adapt positively to such changes.
Example Lesson: Understanding personal boundaries
Explanation: The hesitation and eventual acceptance between the wolves depict the understanding of personal boundaries. Big Wolf respects Little Wolf’s space and vice versa as they grow closer, symbolizing the respect for personal space.
Real-World Application: This lesson is vital in teaching children to respect others' boundaries and understand the importance of personal space in various interactions, promoting harmonious relationships.