Maggie's Second Chance (Sit! Stay! Read!)
#1 in Sit! Stay! Read! Series
What’s inside...
In a compelling story, movingly illustrated, the issue of animal abandonment is brought to life. Maggie, a pregnant lab mix, is left behind in her people's deserted house. Discovered by the realtor, Maggie is brought to the pound where her puppies are born. When Jeff, a fourth-grader, reads a newspaper story about Maggie's puppies being adopted while Maggie is not, he learns from his teacher that Maggie will be euthanized if no one adopts her. This knowledge galvanizes Jeff and his classmates to successfully plan and petition their town council to build an animal shelter. Maggie is given her second chance—taken to the new town shelter, where she is eventually adopted. Maggie's Second Chance is based on the true story of Texas fourth-graders who founded an animal shelter in their town. The final page offers comprehensive information on how to help abandoned dogs. The author, Nancy Furstinger, has written nearly one hundred books, many about animals, and is also an editor at two children's book publishing houses. She shares her home with three rescued dogs and six rescued house rabbits. The illustrator, Joe Hyatt, has a career painting portraits of dogs and lives in California with his three rescue dogs.
Character compass
Maggie
Discussion points
How do you think Maggie felt when she was given a second chance at the shelter?
What can we learn from the students who helped Maggie?
Why is it important to care for and respect animals?
How would you help a pet in need if you had the chance?
What changes do you think Maggie experienced in her new home?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, ask your child what they know about animal shelters. This sets the stage for the themes they'll encounter.
While reading, pause when Maggie’s situation changes, and ask your child how they think she’s feeling. This helps your child develop empathy.
After reading, encourage your child to think of ways they can help animals in their community, linking the story to real-world actions.
Use expressive reading to convey the emotions in the story, making the experience more immersive for your child.
Discuss the outcome of the book and ask your child to imagine what Maggie’s life might be like after the story ends, encouraging creative thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: The story of 'Maggie's Second Chance' revolves around a neglected dog who finds a loving home, teaching children the importance of empathy by understanding and caring about the feelings of others, including animals.
Real-World Application: Children learn to recognize the needs and emotions of pets and other people, encouraging them to act kindly and considerately in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of Second Chances
Explanation: Maggie’s journey from abandonment to being cared for shows that everyone deserves a second chance. This can teach children the value of forgiveness and not defining anyone by their past.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that making mistakes is part of learning and growing, and it’s important to give others the opportunity to improve and make amends.
Example Lesson: Community and Cooperation
Explanation: In the book, a group of students comes together to advocate for and rescue Maggie, showcasing the power of community and teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can see the significance of working in groups and how collective efforts can lead to successful outcomes, encouraging them to participate and cooperate in team activities and community service.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Taking care of a pet, as shown through Maggie's adoption, illustrates the responsibilities involved in caring for another living being, highlighting the dedication required to look after pets.
Real-World Application: This can teach children about the responsibilities involved in pet ownership, or in broader terms, caring for those dependent on them, whether it’s pets, younger siblings, or even plants.
Example Lesson: Advocacy and Voice
Explanation: The children in the book use their voices to advocate for Maggie’s well-being, demonstrating the impact of standing up for what you believe in.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to speak up for themselves and others, be it in school, within their families, or in their communities, fostering a sense of justice and empowerment.