The Tale of Ginger & Pickles
#15 in The World of Beatrix Potter Series
on Goodreads (2,175)
What’s inside...
The Tale of Ginger & Pickles is a children's book that tells the story of two shopkeepers, Ginger, a tomcat, and Pickles, a terrier, who run a village shop that extends unlimited credit to its customers. This leads to financial trouble as their customers take advantage of the situation, and the shopkeepers struggle to keep their business afloat. The Tale of Ginger and Pickles is number 18 in Beatrix Potter's series of 23 little books.
Character compass
Ginger
Pickle
Tabitha Twitchit
Discussion points
Why do you think Ginger and Pickles offered unlimited credit to their customers?
How did the different animals in the story react to the shop closing?
What are some ways Ginger and Pickles could have solved their problem without closing the shop?
What would you do if you were a customer at Ginger and Pickles' store?
How do you think Ginger and Pickles felt when they had to close their shop?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage children to think about the consequences of actions, like offering unlimited credit, by discussing what happened to Ginger and Pickles' store.
Ask children how they would feel if their favorite shop closed, relating it to the animals' reactions in the book to personalize the experience.
Discuss alternative solutions to problems with children, fostering critical thinking by examining Ginger and Pickles' situation.
Let children express what they would buy if they visited Ginger and Pickles’ shop and discuss the importance of paying for goods and services.
Talk about feelings of disappointment and recovery by discussing how the characters might have felt when closing the shop, encouraging emotional understanding and resilience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Financial Responsibility
Explanation: In 'The Tale of Ginger & Pickles', the characters run a shop and extend unlimited credit to their customers, which ultimately leads to their business's downfall. This story illustrates the consequences of poor financial management.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of managing money wisely, understanding the value of goods, and the basics of earning, spending, and saving.
Example Lesson: Honesty in Business
Explanation: The story shows how Ginger and Pickles' decision to give unlimited credit causes their business to fail, underscoring the importance of honesty and transparency in financial dealings.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the value of being truthful and ethical in transactions, whether it's trading snacks at school or negotiating terms during playtime activities.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Although Ginger and Pickles face a business crisis, they work towards finding a solution, demonstrating critical thinking and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to approach their problems logically, think of possible solutions, and not give up easily on challenges whether in school projects or personal tasks.
Example Lesson: The Impact of Community Support
Explanation: The community's response to Ginger and Pickles' store closing shows how communities can rally around individuals facing difficulties.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of supporting friends and community members during tough times, encouraging a sense of empathy and community involvement.