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Paired Texts > Stray

by Cynthia Rylant

1985

We've identified these texts as great options for text pairings based on similar themes, literary devices, topic, or writing style. Supplement your lesson with one or more of these options and challenge students to compare and contrast the texts. To assign a paired text, click on the text to go to its page and click the "Assign Text" button there.

The Market Square Dog

The Market Square Dog

James Herriot

In James Herriot's short story "The Market Square Dog," a veterinarian and a policeman help a stray dog that is injured.

Pair “The Market Square Dog” with “Stray” and ask students to discuss how a stray dog plays a central role in both stories. What do Mr. Herriot and Doris have in common? What are common themes that you see in both stories? How do the authors choose to resolve both stories?

5th Grade Short Story 830L
Standing out in the Herd

Standing out in the Herd

Cecil Dzwowa

In the informational text "Standing Out in the Herd," Cecil Dzwowa explains how a giraffe came to be a part of a herd of cows.

Pair “Standing out in the Herd” with “Stray” and ask students to discuss how both the dog and the giraffe found a new family. What do the dog and the giraffe have in common? How were both animals welcomed into new families? What role does family play in helping both humans and animals feel supported?

5th Grade Informational Text 890L