Danger In The Desert
Time for kids nonfiction readers Series
on Goodreads (200)
What’s inside...
Scott and Robbie always wanted candy and root beer for dinner, but now they've got their wish, and it doesn't sound so good. They've been kidnapped in their mother's station wagon and left in the brutally hot desert with no food or water. When night comes-darker than they ever thought night could be and bringing coyotes and snakes-the brothers, eleven and nine, have to face the possibility that they might not be rescued. It's up to them to survive, using only what they happen to have in the station wagon. How can a pair of shoes, a set of hubcaps, and the contents of their mother's shopping bags be used for desert survival? You won't be able to stop reading until you find out.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
126 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the characters felt when they were lost in the desert? What would you feel in a similar situation?
What are some ways the characters tried to stay safe and find help? Can you think of other strategies that might have worked?
What role do you think teamwork played in the story? Do you have an example from your life where teamwork helped you?
How did the setting of the desert affect the story? Can you imagine this story happening in a different setting?
Why do you think the author chose 'Danger in the Desert' as the title? What does it mean to you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the characters' shoes, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of the narrative.
Discuss the importance of preparedness and safety in unfamiliar situations, drawing parallels to the characters' experiences in the book.
Highlight the significance of cooperation and asking for help when needed, as demonstrated by the characters.
Use descriptive imagery from the book to help your child visualize the desert setting, enhancing their connection to the story.
After discussing the book's title, ask your child to think of alternative titles and why they might also fit the story, encouraging creative thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: In 'Danger In The Desert', the characters must work together to survive challenging circumstances in the desert, demonstrating the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of collaborating with others to solve problems, whether in school projects or family activities.
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness and Problem-Solving
Explanation: The story shows characters using their wits and available resources to navigate through dangers, teaching kids the value of thinking creatively in tough situations.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think outside the box and use available resources to tackle challenges in their daily lives, from handling a difficult homework question to resolving conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: As the characters face various obstacles in the desert, their ability to persevere is highlighted, underscoring the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: Kids learn that persistence is key to overcoming difficulties, whether it be in learning a new skill, improving in a sport, or dealing with personal setbacks.
Example Lesson: Understanding and Respect for Nature
Explanation: The desert setting of the book provides a backdrop for lessons on the beauty and severity of natural environments, promoting respect for nature.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to develop an appreciation for the environment and learn responsible behavior towards nature during outdoor activities and everyday life.
Example Lesson: Courage in Facing Fears
Explanation: The protagonists encounter numerous fears but learn to overcome them bravely, illustrating the virtue of courage.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of facing their fears, whether it's trying out for a team, standing up in class, or sleeping alone in the dark.