Whistle for Willie

What children see in the story

Not being able to do it yet is an ordinary part of Peter’s day, and he returns to practice without needing to hide his inexperience. Calling Willie supplies a concrete purpose and a clear way to recognize success. Several unsuccessful attempts are followed by further practice. Peter identifies a skill he lacks, practices it, and recognizes when he can use it.

Why it’s on these shelves

Being a beginner

Peter can’t whistle yet, and his first tries make no sound. He keeps playing and practicing until he whistles for Willie.

Clear goals

Peter sees another boy call a dog by whistling and wants to do the same for his dog, Willie. The story ends when Peter whistles and calls Willie.

Persistence

Peter’s first tries at whistling fail. He keeps practicing, between playing around the neighborhood and trying on his father’s hat, until it works.

Knowing yourself

Peter knows the one thing he can’t do yet, whistling, and practices it until he can. Then he proudly uses it with his family and on an errand.

Why pick it up?

Peter learns the skill himself through practice.