Good Dog McTavish
#1 in The McTavish Stories Series
What’s inside...
The Peachey family is in crisis. No one cooks dinner, no one picks up the dirty washing and the kids are always late for school. All because Mum has resigned from being Mum and taken up yoga instead. She's in the tree pose; everyone else is in the doghouse. Except McTavish, a rescue dog with a difference, on a mission to sort his new family out. Filled to the brim with Meg's wry humour and beautiful prose, this is a story for the young and the young at heart.
Character compass
Mctavish
Ava Peachey
Betty Peachey
Ma Peachey
Ollie Peachey
Pa Peachey
Discussion points
What do you think made McTavish decide to adopt the Peachey family?
How do you think the family changed after McTavish joined them?
What qualities make McTavish a good dog, and which of those qualities would you like to have?
Why is it important for families to work together like the Peacheys did?
If McTavish could talk, what do you think he would say to the Peachey family?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters to life, this can accentuate the humor and warmth in the story, making the reading experience enjoyable.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story, asking questions like 'What would you do if a dog like McTavish came into our family?'
Discuss the behaviors of the Peachey family members and how they change, highlighting the impact of cooperation and attitude adjustments.
After reading the book, consider adopting a new family ritual inspired by McTavish’s influence on the Peacheys, enhancing the connection between your read-aloud session and everyday life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'Good Dog McTavish', the protagonist McTavish, a clever dog, takes it upon himself to rescue the chaotic Peachey family. He teaches them how to manage their house and take care of themselves.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of taking responsibility in their own homes by doing tasks that contribute to family welfare, like tidying up their room or helping in meal preparation.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the story, McTavish encourages every family member to work together to solve their household issues. This collaborative effort gradually improves the family dynamic.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children the benefit of cooperating with siblings and parents on tasks or decisions, showing them that teamwork often leads to better solutions.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: McTavish showcases adaptability by adjusting to a new family environment and guiding each member according to their needs.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to adjust to changes, whether it's a new school, home, or other environments, understanding that flexibility can help in effectively managing new situations.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: McTavish's actions are guided by his understanding and consideration for each family member's feelings and needs, which eventually help in healing the family.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be considerate of others' emotions and circumstances, fostering a nurturing environment both at home and with friends.