Ugly Mug
A young Puffin story book Series
What’s inside...
Ned struggles with his parents' divorce and is apprehensive about spending a weekend with his dad in his new flat. However, their bond strengthens when they discover and care for a baby sparrow that has fallen out of its nest. This true story reflects the author's personal experience with her children, as they found a baby bird and helped it learn to fly, eventually releasing it back into the wild.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes someone beautiful on the inside?
How did the characters in 'Ugly Mug' show kindness to each other?
Why do you think it's important to look beyond someone's appearance?
How do you feel when someone judges you by your looks?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book's themes without interrupting or correcting them.
Relate the story to real-life scenarios your child may encounter, asking how they would use the lessons from 'Ugly Mug' in those situations.
Praise your child for their unique insights, fostering a deeper connection with the book’s messages.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: In 'Ugly Mug,' the main character exhibits empathy by understanding and sharing the feelings of others, despite their differences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and recognize emotions in classmates and friends, fostering healthier and more supportive relationships.
Example Lesson: Acceptance
Explanation: The story highlights the importance of accepting everyone for who they are, despite physical appearances.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to embrace diversity and be inclusive, promoting a supportive community environment at school and in social settings.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The protagonist faces challenges because of their appearance but learns to overcome them with confidence and courage.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face personal challenges with a positive attitude, which is crucial for problem-solving and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Self-worth
Explanation: The book portrays the theme that everyone has intrinsic value, which is not dependent on external validation.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value themselves and others based on character and actions rather than appearances or materialistic judgments.
Example Lesson: Kindness
Explanation: Throughout the book, acts of kindness have a positive ripple effect on the community.
Real-World Application: It teaches children the impact of their actions and how small acts of kindness can contribute to a happier and more cohesive community.