Lobster in My Pocket
on Goodreads (10)
What’s inside...
Lobster in My Pocket is a children's book by Deirdre Kessler that tells the story of a young girl who finds a lobster while exploring the beach near her home on Prince Edward Island. She decides to take the lobster home and keep it in her pocket, forming a unique bond with the creature. The story unfolds as she learns about the lobster's needs and habitat, ultimately understanding that it belongs in the ocean. The book conveys themes of empathy, responsibility, and the importance of respecting wildlife and their natural environments.
Age
8-12
Length
36 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Laurie
Discussion points
How do you think the lobster felt when it was taken out of its home?
What would you do if you found a lobster, and why?
What does the story teach us about taking care of other creatures?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone smaller or weaker? How did that make you feel?
What would you have done differently if you were in the main character’s shoes?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading the book, ask your child what they know about lobsters and share some interesting facts to pique their interest.
While reading, pause at key moments and ask your child to predict what might happen next, enhancing their critical thinking.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene, which can lead into a discussion about why they chose that particular moment.
Connect the story to real life by discussing the importance of respecting and taking care of animals and their habitats.
Stress the moral of the story and ask your child how they can apply it in their daily life, reinforcing the book’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The story revolves around a child who discovers a lobster and learns to understand the creature's feelings and needs.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to recognize and respect the feelings of others, whether it's family, friends, or animals.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Caring for the lobster teaches the child the importance of looking after others who depend on them.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children grasp the concept of duty and care in tasks such as feeding pets, helping at home, or taking care of their belongings.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The protagonist faces challenges in keeping the lobster safe and healthy, which requires creative problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children will understand that challenges are a part of life and can be tackled effectively with thought and effort.
Example Lesson: The Value of Friendship
Explanation: The book highlights the friendship that develops between the child and the lobster, emphasizing mutual trust and support.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to maintain healthy relationships through mutual respect and understanding.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: The need to return the lobster to its natural habitat underlines the importance of respecting wildlife and nature.
Real-World Application: It instills a sense of environmental responsibility in children, encouraging them to take care of nature and learn about the ecosystems around them.