Irish Red
#2 of 56 in Clifford the Big Red Dog Series
What’s inside...
For all his champion Irish setter blood, Mike was a misfit. Danny Pickett and his father tried everything to train him, but it was the pup himself who finally proved that he was a champion.
Character compass
Mike
Big Red
Danny Pickett
Mr. Haggin
Discussion points
How did the relationship between Danny and his dog, Mike, change throughout the story? What does this tell us about friendship and loyalty?
What challenges did Mike face in the story and how did he overcome them? What can we learn from his perseverance?
How does the setting of the story, the Irish countryside, influence the events and the characters?
What are some of the ways that Danny’s family and community interact with each other? How important is community in our own lives?
What emotions did you feel when reading about Mike’s adventures and struggles? Why do you think you felt that way?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about their own experiences with pets or friends that relate to Danny and Mike's friendship, deepening their connection to the story.
Discuss the importance of resilience and trying hard even when faced with difficulties, drawing parallels to challenges faced by Mike in the story.
Explore the cultural and geographical setting together by looking up information about the Irish countryside, enhancing the reading experience with visual and factual context.
Highlight the interactions between community members in the story and relate it to your child’s experiences in school or neighborhood, emphasizing the value of a supportive community.
Ask your child to describe and articulate their feelings at various points in the story, helping them understand and manage their emotions in relation to the narrative.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'Irish Red,' the protagonist Mike takes on the responsibility of caring for Red, the Irish Setter. Through his actions, the story emphasizes the importance of being responsible for others, especially pets.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of daily responsibilities, like feeding, grooming, and ensuring the well-being of their pets or chores at home, fostering a sense of duty and care.
Example Lesson: Companionship and Loyalty
Explanation: The bond between Mike and Red showcases the themes of loyalty and companionship. Red's unwavering loyalty in protecting and staying by Mike's side underscores these traits.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the value of being a loyal friend and the joy and support a good companion brings, which can encourage them to nurture their relationships with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Courage in Adversity
Explanation: Throughout the book, both Mike and Red face various challenges. Their courage in overcoming these adversities is a central theme, highlighting the importance of bravery and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children gain the understanding that courage is crucial when facing difficulties in life, whether in standing up to a bully or tackling a new challenge at school.
Example Lesson: The Reward of Hard Work
Explanation: Mike's efforts in training and caring for Red lead to success in various hunting trials. This showcases the rewards that come from dedication and hard work.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to put effort into their hobbies, studies, or sports, teaching them that persistence and hard work lead to tangible results and personal growth.