Henry and Mudge in Puddle Trouble — Chapter 1

About This Passage

This passage captures a turning point through pure visual rhythm. Three parallel 'He looked at' clauses build tension as the father surveys the scene, then a one-word exclamation and a five-word action sentence release it. The structure mirrors how the father's mind shifts from judgment to joy — the same pattern of 'looking' that changed Henry's parents' minds in the first book. Students will practice punctuation of dialogue and the power of short sentences after long build-up.

Narration Prompt

In your own words, tell the story of this chapter. What were the most important moments? What made them important — and how do you know?

Discussion Questions

1. Henry almost said 'bad dog' to Mudge but stopped when he saw Mudge's 'soft brown eyes and a flower in his belly.' What made seeing Mudge change Henry's response? Is stopping yourself from saying something harsh a sign of maturity, or is Henry just avoiding the truth that Mudge did something wrong?
2. The author gives us three separate stories — the snow glory, the puddle, and the kittens — all set in spring. What connects these three stories beyond the season? What is Rylant exploring about springtime, or about Henry and Mudge's relationship, that required three stories to say?

+ 3 more questions in the complete study guide