Tiger in a Tutu
on Goodreads (65)
What’s inside...
Max lives a life of luxury in Paris zoo. But Max isn't like other tigers - he is a tiger with a dream! He longs to pirouette and plie, to leap and spin. He wants to be a dazzling dancer, shining on the stage! But will this tiger in a tutu get his moment in the spotlight? And will he ever find a friend to dance by his side? An uplifting tale of following your dreams and pursuing your talent, no matter what.
Age
3-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Max
Celeste
Discussion points
How do you think Max felt when he was trying to dance in his tutu?
Why is it important that Max kept practicing, even when it was hard?
What can we learn from Max’s friends who helped him?
How would you help a friend who is trying to do something difficult?
If you could wear a costume like Max’s tutu, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Show interest in their responses to encourage deep thinking. Nod and maintain eye contact.
Ask follow-up questions based on the child’s comments to delve deeper into their thoughts and feelings.
Relate the story to the child’s personal experiences to make the discussion more relevant and engaging.
Praise their efforts to think critically about the story and its characters, reinforcing their analytical skills.
Encourage them to imagine alternative endings or scenarios to foster creativity and problem-solving skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Pursuing dreams despite challenges
Explanation: The main character, Max, a tiger, dreams of becoming a ballet dancer, showcasing resilience and perseverance by practicing ballet daily in the park despite not fitting the typical ballet stereotype.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of following their passions and not giving up, even when others might doubt them or when obstacles arise.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship and support
Explanation: Max's journey highlights the role of friendship as he receives encouragement and support from his friend Celeste, which plays a crucial role in his pursuit of ballet.
Real-World Application: This story can teach children about the value of supporting others’ dreams and how positive encouragement can significantly impact someone’s confidence and success.
Example Lesson: Breaking stereotypes
Explanation: Max is a tiger wanting to be a ballet dancer, challenging the traditional roles or images associated with activities like ballet, which are often not depicted as pursuits for someone like a tiger.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate diversity in interests and capabilities, understanding that anyone can engage in any activity they are passionate about, regardless of societal expectations.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As readers follow Max’s experiences, they are encouraged to understand and feel what it’s like to be different and pursue something unconventional.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop empathy towards others who are different from them or who have unique aspirations, promoting inclusiveness and acceptance.
Example Lesson: Joy in achievement
Explanation: After much practice and persistence, Max performs triumphantly, which brings him immense joy and satisfaction, showcasing the emotional rewards of achieving personal goals.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to strive towards their goals and relish the happiness that comes from achieving something they've worked hard for.