Henry and Mudge in Puddle Trouble — Chapter 1

About This Passage

This passage uses parallel structure with a rhyming moral pivot — 'let grow' transforms into 'let go' — teaching young writers how repetition with variation can deliver a powerful lesson. The shift from ownership ('his snow glory') to acceptance ('just a thing') is the emotional center of the story, and copying it allows the child to internalize both the rhythm and the wisdom.

Narration Prompt

Tell someone what happened in this chapter in order. When you get to the most important part, slow down and tell it carefully — what happened, why it mattered, and what you think about it.

Discussion Questions

1. Henry almost said 'bad dog' to Mudge after Mudge ate the snow glory, but then he stopped. Was Henry right to stop, or should he have told Mudge he was wrong? What in the story makes you think so?
2. Henry's father came outside angry because Henry went out in the rain without asking. But then the father looked at the puddle and jumped in himself. Why do you think the father changed from being upset to being playful? What in the story helps you understand what happened?

+ 2 more questions in the complete study guide