Pistes d'exploration

Discuss whether the stranger is making trouble or if he means well. What is the significance of the stranger being a wolf? What does winds of change mean and how does this relate to the story? What changes occur after the wolf leaves?

Act out an interview with the cat, the mouse and the dog. 

How do the characters feel about each other by the end of the book? Do you think the experience changed their friendship? Why or why not? Share your opinions and observations with a peer.

Retell the story. Remember to look carefully at the illustrations as well as the text. 

Following a discussion with your classmates, write a response to the story. What new perspectives did you gain? Did you relate more to one character than another?

Based on the cover page and illustrations, predict what the story will be about. Identify the characters and setting. 

Make a story map about what happens at the beginning, in the middle and at the end of the story.

Discuss the story. Does the stranger have a good or bad influence on the friends? Why is it difficult to change our routines? What qualities do you need to adapt to change?

Write a postcard from the stranger to the three friends.

How to Talk to Your Cat

Mots-clés

Picture book , cats , changes , characteristics , companionship , cooperation , dogs , mice

Commentaire descriptif

Three animal friends share a beach hut by the sea. Everyone does their part: Dog tends the bone garden, Cat cleans the house, and Mouse cooks the cheese-laden meals. Their peaceful life changes when a stranger washes onto their shore. While the friends welcome the newcomer, the language foreshadows a threat to the groups’ equilibrium. Young readers may detect an ominous tone: “They were the Lucky Winners of a visit from the WINDS OF CHANGE Trading Company and it would be absolutely FREE.” Fun, attractive images have strong lines and brim with textures. Details on Mouse’s “free” cooking magazines will engage children. Cat’s gift of sardines contrasts with yet another fondue supper. Dog notes the mess of dirty laundry by the bed where Cat snoozes, feather duster in paw. A fight ensues, but when Mouse almost drowns, the friends are reunited. This story offers opportunity for discussion about both the discomfort and the necessity of transition and change. As the friends lie in a heap on the beach, the stranger slips away, leaving behind a final gift of seed packets for their garden. The message of this funny and wise fable is that change can be challenging but good.