The Cat Who Liked Potato Soup
What’s inside...
With down-home language that’s a joy to read aloud, Terry Farish tells a wry, unconventional love story about an unlikely pair of curmudgeons - brought to life in glowing illustrations by Barry Root. The cat was fond of the man’s potato soup, which made him love her a breath more, but not so’s you’d notice. There was an old man, an ol’ Texas boy, who lived on a road called Chatterpie with an uppity old cat - a cat who’d rather eat potato soup than catch blackbirds. A cat who liked to go fishing and sit on the bow of the old man’s boat, her face into the wind, like she was a hood ornament. 'Fool cat,' the old man would say. 'You ain’t nobody’s prize.' Then one day something unexpected happens, and they both learn that even the most cantankerous love can inspire acts of heroic proportions - but not, of course, so’s you’d notice.
Age
6-9
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The Old Man
The Cat
Discussion points
How do you think the cat feels about the farmer, and why do you think he feels that way?
What do you think makes the cat and the farmer's relationship special?
Why do you think the cat likes potato soup so much?
How do you think the story would change if the cat didn’t like potato soup?
What do you think is the most important message of this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the emotions of the characters by asking them how they would feel in similar situations.
Highlight the importance of companionship and caring by discussing the relationship dynamics between the cat and the farmer.
Discuss the uniqueness of personal preferences, such as the cat's love for potato soup, and ask your child about their own favorite foods and why they like them.
Use the story as a way to discuss the themes of loyalty and friendship and how they can apply these themes in their own relationships.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of companionship
Explanation: The cat and the old man share a strong bond over their love for potato soup, depicting the importance of companionship.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the relationships they have with their pets or family members, understanding that companionship can bring joy and comfort.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Change
Explanation: The story highlights how the cat’s behavior changes as it grows older, teaching that change is a natural part of life.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing changes in their own lives, such as starting a new school or making new friends, with positivity and openness.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: Despite the cat wandering off and facing the dangers of the world, it returns home, representing resilience.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of overcoming obstacles and the importance of returning to their safe space or family after a difficult experience.
Example Lesson: Consistency and routine
Explanation: The old man consistently makes potato soup, showing the comfort and stability that routines can bring.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the benefits of having routines, such as regular meal times or bedtime rituals, helping them feel more secure and grounded.