Hopper's Destiny
#2 of 3 in Mouseheart Series
What’s inside...
Hopper, a brave mouse, realizes he is not an ordinary pet shop mouse and faces the challenge of rebuilding the underground rat civilization of Atlantia after its destruction and the dethronement of its evil leader, Titus. With the help of Zucker, Firren, and a group of Rangers, Hopper works to rebuild, but faces obstacles as Queen Felina, the evil feral royal, begins assembling a new band of street cats. Meanwhile, Hopper's siblings, Pinkie and Pup, embark on their own challenging paths, with Pinkie leading a coup and Pup changing in unforeseen ways. With new allies like a funky cat named Ace, Hopper strives to make the tunnels safe and fulfill a destiny he never imagined.
Character compass
Hopper
Freedah
Pup
Emperor Titus
Pinkie
Discussion points
How do you think Hopper felt when faced with the challenges in his destiny? What would you do in his place?
What do you think the idea of 'destiny' means in the story? Do you believe everyone has a destiny?
How did Hopper's relationships with his friends and enemies evolve throughout the book? What does this teach us about handling difficult relationships?
What are some of the strengths and weaknesses that Hopper displays? Can you relate to any of them?
If you could change one thing in Hopper's journey, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Utilize pauses after reading pivotal moments or chapters to ask your child how they feel about the events, enhancing emotional connection.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the challenges Hopper faces and any challenges they might face, fostering empathy and self-relief strategies.
Discuss the importance of friendship and bravery as displayed in the book, emphasizing how these themes apply to your child's everyday life.
After finishing the book, ask your child to summarize what destiny meant to Hopper and what they think it means to them, supporting analytical thinking and personal reflection.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Bravery in the face of adversity
Explanation: Hopper, the protagonist, faces numerous challenges and dangers throughout his journey. His courage in overcoming these obstacles is a central theme.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and challenges with courage, understanding that bravery is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act in spite of it.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, Hopper relies on his friends and forms new alliances. These relationships are crucial in helping him navigate his challenges.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to value and nurture friendships, understanding that working together and supporting each other is vital in overcoming difficulties.
Example Lesson: Self-discovery and identity
Explanation: As Hopper embarks on his journey, he learns more about his past and what kind of mouse he wants to become.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to explore their own identities and embrace their unique qualities, learning that personal growth is a continuous journey.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Hopper encounters setbacks and difficulties but his resilience allows him to keep pushing forward regardless of the circumstances.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence and resilience, emphasizing that setbacks can be overcome with determination and a positive attitude.
Example Lesson: Making ethical choices
Explanation: Hopper often faces moral dilemmas and has to make decisions that reflect his values.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of making decisions based on their values and understanding the impact of their choices on others and themselves.