Harvey, the Horse Who Wanted a Hat (Elm Grove Farm Series)
#4 in ELM Grove Farm Series
What’s inside...
Harvey, the horse, lives on Elm Grove Farm and helps farmer Tom with cattle work. However, he struggles with the hot weather. Observing Tom's wide-brimmed hat, Harvey decides he needs a hat to keep cool. Through a series of humorous antics, Harvey communicates his desire to Tom, who laughs and understands Harvey's needs. In the end, Harvey happily wears a custom-made straw hat that keeps him shaded.
Discussion points
Why do you think Harvey wanted a hat so much?
How do you think Harvey felt when he finally got his hat?
What would you do if you were in Harvey's place?
Can you think of a time when you wanted something really badly like Harvey? How did you feel?
What do you think is the message of this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading each page, ask your child to predict what might happen next. This builds anticipation and engagement.
Encourage your child to express what they liked or didn’t like about Harvey’s choices. Discuss alternative actions Harvey could have taken.
After reading the book, ask your child to draw their favorite scene. This helps reinforce memory and gives them a chance to express their interpretation creatively.
Use different voices for different characters to make the reading more dynamic and entertaining.
Connect the story to your child’s own experiences by discussing similar feelings or desires they’ve had.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance
Explanation: Harvey the Horse learns to embrace his unique features instead of feeling self-conscious about not wearing a hat like the other animals.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to appreciate their individuality and understand that it's okay to be different from others.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: Throughout the book, Harvey faces challenges in his quest for a hat but he does not give up, teaching children the value of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This encourages kids to keep trying in their endeavors, whether in learning new skills or facing day-to-day challenges.
Example Lesson: Creativity in problem-solving
Explanation: Harvey uses creative methods to try and obtain a hat, showing children that sometimes thinking outside the box can provide solutions.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to think creatively to solve problems both big and small in their lives.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: Harvey receives help and support from his friends on the farm, which highlights the value of having good friends.
Real-World Application: Children understand the importance of cultivating friendships and helping each other out.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of others
Explanation: As the animals on Elm Grove Farm come to accept Harvey without a hat, they learn a valuable lesson about accepting others as they are.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be accepting and inclusive of their peers, regardless of their differences.