Books and Stories - Augustus and his smile
Updated: Aug 27
This Augustus and his Smile assembly for primary schools introduces pupils to the importance of noticing the simple things that bring happiness and joy. Through story, discussion and reflection, children explore themes of gratitude, kindness and wellbeing, thinking about how beauty, friendship and nature can help us feel calm, positive and connected to the world around us.
Suitable for EYFS, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2.
About the Book
Augustus and his Smile tells the story of a tiger called Augustus who wakes up one day feeling sad because he has lost his smile. Determined to find it again, he travels through forests, mountains and oceans searching for happiness.
As Augustus explores the world around him, he begins to notice the beauty of nature — colourful fish, tall trees, birds singing and rain falling from the sky. By the end of the story, Augustus realises that happiness is often found in the simple things we see and experience every day.
The book encourages children to slow down, notice the world around them and appreciate the moments that bring joy and comfort.
Why is this story important for children?
In a busy world, children can sometimes forget to stop and notice the small things that help them feel happy and calm. Augustus and his Smile encourages children to think about wellbeing, gratitude and mindfulness in a gentle and age-appropriate way.
The story helps children to:
recognise emotions and talk about feelings
appreciate nature and the world around them
understand that happiness can come from simple experiences
think about kindness, friendship and positivity
reflect on ways they can spread happiness to others
The story also provides a lovely opportunity to discuss mental wellbeing and how noticing beauty, spending time outdoors or talking to others can help us when we feel worried or sad.
About the Author
Catherine Rayner is a British author and illustrator best known for her beautifully illustrated picture books featuring animals and themes of emotion, kindness and discovery.
Her illustrations are soft, expressive and full of detail, helping children connect with the feelings of the characters. Augustus and his Smile became one of her most popular books and has been enjoyed by children in schools and homes around the world.
Many of Catherine Rayner’s stories encourage children to think carefully about emotions, relationships and the natural world.
This assembly includes:
A ready-to-use PowerPoint
A clear, easy-to-follow script
Discussion questions
Optional collective worship slides
A linked Bible message and prayer
FAQs
Who is this assembly suitable for?
Do I need the book?
Yes. We recommend using a copy of Augustus and his Smile to get the full impact of the story and illustrations during the assembly.
Do I need to plan anything for this assembly?
No. All of our assemblies are ready-to-deliver. Simply download, read through the plan and deliver.
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