Mrs Noah’s Pockets
Jackie Morris and James Mayhew
- Reading
- Read it aloud slowly, pausing to notice the page composition and Mrs Noah’s actions. If the flood premise is unfamiliar, briefly explain that this is a retelling of a biblical story before discussing the changes.
- Themes
- Whose perspective is centred: Mr Noah organises the ark and makes lists, while Mrs Noah quietly watches, sews and makes her own plans. The retelling presents Mrs Noah as a dignified, capable quiet rebel whose choices become central.
- Retelling a familiar story: The book retells the ark story with a changed emphasis and a twist centred on Mrs Noah. It uses a familiar narrative as a foundation while making space for a less prominent character’s perspective.
- Care, selection and exclusion: Mr Noah makes one list for animals coming aboard and another for troublesome creatures left behind. The setup creates an opening to consider who is protected, who is excluded and whether Mrs Noah’s actions alter that arrangement.
- Worth knowing
- The story includes heavy rain, an ark, animals being saved, and other creatures being left behind. The flood setting may prompt questions about danger or fairness; the ending and the consequences of Mrs Noah’s plan are not described.