The Cricket in Times Square
#1 of 7 in Chester Cricket and His Friends Series
What’s inside...
An updated version of the timeless children's classic, 'The Cricket in Times Square', follows the adventures of Tucker the streetwise city mouse, Harry Cat, and Chester Cricket who hails from Connecticut. When Chester accidentally ends up in New York City's Times Square subway station, he meets Tucker and Harry who show him the city sights. Chester also befriends a boy named Mario, who rescues Chester and brings him to live at his parents' newsstand. Chester's hidden musical talent surfaces, teaching the tough New Yorkers around him valuable lessons. This edition features new illustrations, a foreword, and revisions by YA author Stacey Lee.
Character compass
Chester Cricket
Papa Bellini
Harry Cat
Tucker Mouse
Mario Bellini
Mama Bellini
Discussion points
Why do you think Chester Cricket felt happy playing music in Times Square?
How do the characters in the story show friendship and support to each other?
What lessons can we learn from Tucker Mouse’s cleverness and Harry Cat’s caution?
How does the setting of Times Square affect the story and the characters?
If you were Chester, what would you have done differently in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage children to think about the feelings and motivations of each character, asking them how they would feel in similar situations.
Discuss the significance of different settings in the story, such as Times Square, and how they influence the events and characters.
Relate the themes of friendship and teamwork in the book to your child’s own experiences with friends or in team activities.
Invite your child to share which character they liked the most and why, fostering a deeper connection with the story and its characters.
Use examples from the book to teach valuable life lessons, such as the importance of helping others or being brave in new situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of friendship and empathy.
Explanation: In 'The Cricket in Times Square,' the friendships between Chester Cricket, Tucker Mouse, and Harry Cat showcase the importance of understanding and helping each other despite their differences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace diversity, show empathy towards friends from different backgrounds, and support each other in challenging times.
Example Lesson: Adaptability and resilience.
Explanation: Chester, being out of his natural environment, learns to adapt to the bustling city life of Times Square with the help of his new friends.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of being adaptable when faced with new and challenging situations, encouraging them to stay resilient and find solutions.
Example Lesson: The beauty of discovering and sharing talents.
Explanation: Chester discovers his unique talent of chirping music which not only brings joy to himself but also to others around him.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to discover their own unique talents and share them with others, boosting self-esteem and fostering a sense of community.
Example Lesson: The power of curiosity and learning.
Explanation: Throughout the book, Chester’s curiosity leads him to explore and learn about his new surroundings, which enriches his experiences.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to be curious about the world around them, promoting lifelong learning and a deeper understanding of different environments and cultures.