There are many books on local library shelves that contain themes and ideas that are similar to THE CARP WHO WOULD NOT QUIT. Use your play-going experience to introduce and explore new books with your students and to discuss those themes and ideas.

BEFORE SEEING THE HTY PLAY:
READPeace Tales by Margaret Read MacDonald

Talk about:
Respect: How do the characters in the story show or NOT show respect for each other? How does their attitude help or hurt their relationship?
Peace: Which characters want peace? How do the characters help peace happen?

AFTER SEEING THE HTY PLAY
READThe Last Kappa of Old Japan: a Magical Journey of Two Friends by Sunny Seki

Talk about:
Friends – Who were the friends in the story? What did they do?
Caring – How did the friends care for each other?
Persistence – How did the friends work to help the world?