Thidwick the Big-Hearted Moose
by Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss’s sweetly drawn and expressive Thidwick is a big moose with a big problem. After agreeing to let a tiny Bingle Bug ride along on his antlers as a guest, something unexpected happens: the bug invites a spider who invites a bird who invites his wife, her uncle, and a family of squirrels, and so on. Soon Thidwick is playing host to creatures that are more pest than guest. They won’t even let the poor moose leave to find food! Worse, a group of hunters begins to shoot at him! What’s a proper host to do? As told through Seuss’s lively verse, the funny answer—and fitting outcome for the guest-pests—will have readers cheering for Thidwick the Big-Hearted Moose.

Tie-in Activity: Role-play can help your child practice being both a kind host and gracious guest. Host a “party” with your child by inviting some stuffed animal “guests” to snack time. Take turns playing host and guest. For a young child, simply saying “please” and “thank you” at the right times is a great place to start. Let older children practice more formal party manners—including offering to help with the cleanup.