My children may think they are too old for books like Three Paws New Family, but I know better! As a 40-something-year-old mom, I know you are never too old for children’s books. That’s why I jumped at the chance to read Three Paws New Family by, Karen Struck. This is a sweet story that has many layers for discussion and learning – so many in fact, that my inner-teacher needed to gather up some activities and share them with you here. So take a look at my review and then keep reading for some added fun!
The adventures of Boots, the grizzly bear cub, continues as he befriends a black bear named Sockeye and her Mexican brother, Pepe, the iguana.
Sockeye has lost her mother and is not old enough to live on her own. Her prayers are answered when she meets little Pepe. He escaped his human family’s home in Ketchikan to explore the beautiful Alaskan wilderness but lost his way back home. A lonely bear cub and a lost iguana become a “family” relying on each other for companionship, friendship, and survival skills.
What does a bond of friendship and family have in common? You always know who will be there for you when you need them most.
When Boots, the three-pawed bear cub, comes face-to-face with the open jaws of a hungry lion, he is left to wonder who will help him.
If he survives this attack, how will he defend himself in the future with only three paws? The answer may be waiting for him high above in the mighty Sitka spruce, the official state tree of Alaska.
Karen Struck discovered the joy of children’s literature as she read to her daughter before bed each night. She decided to take writing courses through the Institute of Children’s Literature after being inspired by the Harry Potter book series.
It was after an Alaskan cruise with her family that she had the idea to create a hopeful story about the majestic wildlife she’d seen there. So, for one of her writing assignments at the ICL, she did, and Three Paws was born!
She wrote the Three Paws children’s book series to inspire children to be brave and believe in themselves despite challenges they may face.
Outside of being a children’s book author, Karen is a registered nurse and works in the aesthetic industry. She works with her husband, Steve, a plastic surgeon in Atherton, CA and they live in Los Gatos, California. She has a daughter, Rachel, and two stepchildren, Danni and Evan Struck.
I love when books are more than just a fun story – and this is especially true for children’s books. When books of any type can spark conversation and a desire to learn more, they have truly enhanced the life of the reader. Three Paws New Family is that kind of book!
On the outside, this book is a sweet story about a bear who makes some new friends and expands his family. Beneath the surface though, this book is about families and sharing love with others.
While I do worry about a lizard living in Alaska (what happens when it gets really cold), the characters are loveable and children will relate easily to them. I recommend you check out Three Paws New Family today – and the first book in the series too!
The fun doesn’t stop when you are finished reading Three Paws New Family! Here are some ideas to keep the fun going – and maybe even learn something in the process.
Have a Three Paws Dance Party!!
It’s a crazy time right now! If you need to shake out some energy with your kids, check out this fun, uplifting and inspirational Spotify playlist that you can dance to with your little ones after reading Three Paws’ New Family. Author Karen Struck has put this playlist together for families to help start meaningful conversations about family, friendship, differences and how to love others well.
Learn Some Geography with Three Paws
This story takes place in Ketchikan, Alaska. Where is that you say? I’m so glad you asked!
Want to learn even more about Ketchikan? It really is a beautiful part of the world! Check out the area’s tourism website.
And if you’ve now caught the “Geography Bug,” you are going to want to check out Mr. Nussbaum’s USA Alaska Activities for even more Alaska-based learning. There are activities here for students of all ages.
Learn Some Ecology with Three Paws
What is a Sitka Spruce Tree? Well not only is it the home of Three Paws’ new friend Sockeye, but it is also the state tree of Alaska.
And Finally, Learn Some Zoology with Three Paws
This book contains quite a few different species of animals, so there are lots of opportunities to talk about zoology. To get a closer look at Grizzly Bears, let’s take a virtual trip to Alaska.
And since Three Paws is an expert at catching salmon, I thought it would be fun to take a look at how that works too. (Warning: Salmon were most definitely harmed in the making of this film and there is a little bit of fish blood in the video.)
Want even more activities?
Check out the book’s official webpage!
Books, Tea, Healthy Me 