Tobermory
What’s inside...
Dismay breaks out at a quiet country house party when the family cat acquires the power of speech and begins revealing all kinds of embarrassing secrets. Toby is a cat that learns to speak human, causing surprise and chaos among the guests as he starts to disclose private and sensitive information.
Age
12-15
Length
31 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Tobermory
Lady Blemley
Sir Wilfrid Blemley
Mr. Cornelius Appin
Discussion points
What do you think Tobermory felt when he first discovered his unique talent?
How do you think the other characters felt about Tobermory talking?
Why is it important to think before we speak?
How would you feel if animals around us could talk?
What can we learn from Tobermory's adventure in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by relating themes in the book to your child's personal experiences. For instance, discussing times when they wished they could communicate better with their pets or wildlife.
Encourage your child to think critically about the characters’ reactions in the book, fostering empathy and perspective-taking skills.
Use expressive reading techniques, varying your voice for different characters, to make the story livelier and more engaging.
After reading, relate the moral lessons from the story to real-life situations to help your child apply the lessons from the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: In 'Tobermory,' the characters learn the consequences of not being truthful through the interactions and fallout among the group when Tobermory, the cat, starts revealing secrets.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding the value of honesty in building trust and maintaining healthy relationships with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Respecting differences
Explanation: The story showcases various characters with different personalities and reactions to Tobermory’s ability, teaching that everyone is unique and should be respected for their individuality.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate diversity among their peers and learn to interact respectfully with others who may be different from themselves.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: As the story unfolds, the characters face different consequences based on their actions towards Tobermory, emphasizing that actions have reactions.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to think before they act, understanding that their actions will impact not only themselves but also those around them.
Example Lesson: Courage to speak up
Explanation: Tobermory bravely shares the truth, despite the potential backlash, highlighting the courage it takes to speak up.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to voice their opinions or stand up for what is right, even when it might be difficult or unpopular.