About This Book
Marcia Brown's Caldecott-winning retelling of an Indian fable from the Hitopadesa explores themes of pride, humility, and gratitude. A benevolent hermit repeatedly saves a small mouse from predators by transforming it into larger, more powerful animals: first a cat, then a dog, and finally a magnificent tiger. However, the tiger's newfound strength leads to arrogance, causing him to forget his origins and even threaten his benefactor. This classic story offers a gentle yet powerful lesson about the dangers of vanity and the importance of remembering where you came from. It's ideal for sparking conversations about character and respect.
As it changes from mouse, to cat, to dog, to tiger, a hermit's pet also becomes increasingly vain.
Concepts
Self-Confidence & IdentityResilience & PerseveranceLove & FamilyJoy & GratitudeShame & GuiltCuriosity & WonderFriendship & LoyaltyCreativity & ImaginationTeamwork & CollaborationJustice & FairnessGood vs. EvilHonesty & IntegrityForgiveness & RedemptionFreedom & IndependenceFear & BraveryEmpathy & KindnessAnger & FrustrationBeing DifferentGrowing UpAnimalsFairy Tales & MythologyFantasy & MagicCatsDogsMonsters
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Discussion Prompts
1
Why did the hermit keep changing the mouse into different animals?
2
How did the tiger change as he became bigger and stronger?
3
What does it mean to be humble? Why is it important?
4
Have you ever felt proud of something? When is pride a good thing, and when can it be a problem?
5
What do you think the tiger learned at the end of the story?
External Reviews
Awards
1 award
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