Cress Watercress
What’s inside...
A lavishly illustrated woodland tale with a classic sensibility and modern flair—from the fertile imagination behind Wicked. Gregory Maguire turns his trademark wit and wisdom to an animal adventure about growing up, moving on, and finding community. When Papa doesn't return from a nocturnal honey-gathering expedition, Cress holds out hope, but her mother assumes the worst. It’s a dangerous world for rabbits, after all. Mama moves what’s left of the Watercress family to the basement unit of the Broken Arms, a run-down apartment oak with a suspect owl landlord, a nosy mouse super, a rowdy family of squirrels, and a pair of songbirds who broadcast everyone’s business. Can a dead tree full of annoying neighbors, and no Papa, ever be home? In the timeless spirit of E. B. White and The Wind and the Willows—yet thoroughly of its time—this read-aloud and read-alone gem for animal lovers of all ages features an unforgettable cast that leaps off the page in glowing illustrations by David Litchfield. This tender meditation on coming-of-age invites us to flourish wherever we find ourselves.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
224 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Cress Watercress felt when she had to move to a new home? What would you do in her situation?
What can we learn from Cress's relationship with her family and friends? How does it compare to your relationships?
How do the characters in the book help each other? Can you think of a time you helped someone or someone helped you?
What role does the forest setting play in the story? How do you imagine it would look and feel?
Why do you think the author chose a rabbit, Cress, as the main character? How would the story change if it was a different animal?
Tip: Role play these questions
Reflect on Cress's emotions and actions together, encouraging your child to express their own feelings about moving or facing changes.
Discuss the importance of support systems and teamwork, drawing parallels to the child's own life and the characters in the book.
Explore the book's setting by imagining or drawing pictures of it, which can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the story’s environment.
Ask your child to consider why certain animals were chosen for each character role, and what traits these animals might symbolize in the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of change
Explanation: Cress Watercress experiences significant changes when her family moves to a new home. Her journey reflects how she adapts and finds her place in a new community.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace change and find positive aspects in new situations, whether it's moving to a new place, changing schools, or meeting new friends.
Example Lesson: Value of community and friendship
Explanation: Throughout the story, Cress develops relationships with other characters, illustrating the importance of support and friendship.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to build and maintain friendships, understanding that community is a key part of overcoming challenges and enjoying life.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: Cress Watercress encounters various challenges and fears in her adventures. Her courage to confront these fears head-on is a pivotal part of the story.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing fears and the role of courage in achieving personal growth and confidence.
Example Lesson: Importance of family
Explanation: The story portrays the strong bond within Cress’s family, highlighting how they support and care for each other despite difficulties.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of family support and love, encouraging them to appreciate and contribute to their own family's well-being.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As Cress interacts with other creatures, she learns to understand their perspectives and experiences, fostering a sense of empathy.
Real-World Application: By understanding the feelings of others, children can develop deeper social connections and learn to respect diverse perspectives and needs.