Calvin Coconut: Man Trip
#7 in Calvin Coconut Series
on Goodreads (66)
What’s inside...
Calvin and his Mom's boyfriend, Ledward, are good friends. When Ledward wins plane tickets, he invites Calvin to go on a man trip—they'll fly to Hawaii, the Big Island, for a day, and go deep-sea fishing. Calvin, who has never been on a plane or any boat but his skiff, catches his first big fish, an ono. However, the excitement intensifies when Ledward hooks a huge and very angry marlin that charges the boat. The experience opens Calvin's eyes to adventure and important ideas about respecting nature.
Character compass
Calvin Coconut
Willy
Calvin's Mom
Little Dad
Discussion points
What do you think Calvin learned during his trip? How do you think it changed him?
Why is it important to try new things and have adventures?
How did Calvin’s relationships with other characters develop throughout the story?
If you were Calvin, what would you have done differently on the trip?
What was your favorite part of the book and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, relate the adventures of Calvin to any family trips or experiences your child had, to make it more relatable.
Ask your child to imagine their own adventure story - who would they travel with, and where would they go? This can help deepen their connection to the themes in 'Calvin Coconut: Man Trip'.
Encourage your child to draw a scene from one of Calvin's adventures, helping them to visualize and engage more deeply with the story.
Use expressive reading to convey the excitement, challenges, and joys Calvin experiences, making the storytelling session lively and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'Calvin Coconut: Man Trip', Calvin learns about taking ownership of his actions when he goes on a camping trip with his dad and friends, facing challenges that test his decision-making skills.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking on small duties at home or in school, learning to follow through and understand the consequences of their actions.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the camping trip, Calvin and his friends must work together to set up camp and solve problems, highlighting the importance of collaboration and supporting each other.
Real-World Application: Children can use this lesson by participating in group activities or team sports, where cooperating with others is key to achieving a common goal.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Calvin faces his fears during the trip, whether it's dealing with wildlife or resolving conflicts, teaching him to be brave in the face of adversity.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that it’s okay to feel afraid and that facing fears, big or small, is a part of growing up. They can practice courage by trying new activities or standing up for themselves or others.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The unpredictable nature of the outdoor experience forces Calvin to adapt to new situations quickly, learning flexibility.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more adaptable by being open to changes in their routines or approaches, whether in their academic or personal lives.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: Calvin’s adventure in the great outdoors teaches him the importance of respecting the environment and the wildlife within it.
Real-World Application: Children can engage in activities that promote environmental consciousness, such as recycling, conserving water, or participating in local clean-up days.