Greyfriars Bobby
Puffin modern classics Series
What’s inside...
Greyfriars Bobby; When Bobby's master died, the little dog won the hearts of many by sitting by his master's grave for many years and making Greyfriar's Kirkyard his home.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Greyfriars Bobby
Discussion points
Why do you think Bobby stayed by his master’s grave for so long? What does this tell you about loyalty and friendship?
What emotions did you feel as you read about Bobby’s adventures and challenges?
How did the townspeople react to Bobby, and what does this teach us about community support?
If you were in Bobby’s situation, how would you have reacted? Why?
What lessons can we learn from Bobby’s story about caring for others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Bobby's paws, fostering empathy and understanding. Use the book’s setting to spark a conversation about historical contexts and the differences in time periods. Highlight the importance of loyalty and ask your child to share a story of when they felt loyal to someone or something. Ensure to relate personal experiences or similar stories to help your child connect emotionally with Bobby’s story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Loyalty
Explanation: The story illustrates loyalty through Bobby, the devoted dog who stays by his owner's grave for years.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of loyalty in friendships and family relationships, understanding the value of being faithful and steadfast in their connections with others.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Bobby's dedication despite harsh weather and adversity showcases the power of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to persist in their goals and responsibilities, even when they face difficulties or setbacks, teaching them resilience.
Example Lesson: Compassion
Explanation: The community's response to Bobby's situation, taking care of him and providing for his needs, exemplifies compassion.
Real-World Application: Children learn to recognize situations where empathy is needed and to take actionable steps to help and care for others in their community.
Example Lesson: The value of community
Explanation: The entire village comes together to support Bobby, showing the strength and support a community can offer.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate and contribute to their community, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support.
Example Lesson: Memory and remembrance
Explanation: Bobby's vigil at his owner's grave demonstrates the importance of remembering and honoring those we have lost.
Real-World Application: Children learn about the importance of keeping memories of loved ones alive and the value of remembrance in healing and honoring relationships.