Henry and Mudge: The First Book by Cynthia Rylant, is the first story in a classic easy reader series about young Henry and his dog Mudge. The Henry and Mudge books have delighted many a new reader. The first book introduces the strong bond Henry and his dog build and the plot is very relatable to young children.
This book is a great way to introduce key lessons to young students, including character mapping, making connections, themes, and analyzing vocabulary words. Including storyboards with these activities will enhance creativity and comprehension through the visual nature of storyboarding!
Henry is lonely because he has no siblings, and no children live on his street. He asks his parents if he could have a brother or sister, and they say no. He asks if they could move to a different neighborhood, and they say no. Henry asks if they can get a dog, and they say yes!
Henry searches and searches for a perfect dog. He has clear expectations, and when he sees a cute, small puppy, he knows it’s the one. Henry names his puppy Mudge, and Mudge does not stay small. He grows to one hundred and eighty pounds, three feet tall, and becomes Henry’s best friend.
Henry used to be worried about bullies, tornadoes, or other scary things when he walked to school, but now he has Mudge to protect him. All Henry’s worries are gone.
One day, Mudge decides to go for a walk without Henry. He reaches a point where he cannot smell home. Mudge is lost! He lies down and misses his friend, Henry.
Henry is worried that Mudge left him. He always thought they would be together forever. Henry cries until he realizes that Mudge loves him, and there is no way he left willingly, he must be lost! Henry searches and calls for Mudge. They finally find each other!
Mudge or Henry never want to feel the way they did when they were separated, so they decide to do everything together and never leave one another.
