#3 in The Magic Tree House Series
Dingoes at Dinnertime
illustrations by
on Goodreads (8,847)
What’s inside...
Jack and Annie are whisked back in time to the Australian Outback in the 'Magic Tree House's' 20th adventure! Their mission from Morgan le Fay? Find and help a baby kangaroo and a koala escape from a fire-filled forest. Will they be able to rescue the animals and make it back to the tree house in time?
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to live in the Australian Outback like Jack and Annie did?
How did Jack and Annie help the animals in the story? What would you have done in their place?
What did you learn about dingoes from this book? How do you think they are different from or similar to other animals you know?
What are some ways Jack and Annie showed teamwork in their adventure? Can you think of a time when you had to work as a team?
Can you imagine creating your own magic adventure? Where would you go and what would you want to see?
Tip: Role play these questions
Enhance understanding by asking your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. Discuss why they made that choice.
Encourage empathy by discussing how Jack and Annie felt in different situations throughout the book, and ask how your child would feel in similar circumstances.
Stimulate curiosity by exploring more about the Australian Outback, its environment, and native animals together through books or online resources.
Build connection by sharing your own stories or experiences related to themes in the book, such as teamwork, adventure, or helping animals.
Promote creativity and imagination by planning a 'magic tree house' adventure day where you and your child can create stories or crafts based on the book’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: In 'Dingoes at Dinnertime,' the characters work together to solve problems and navigate through the Australian Outback.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working with others to achieve common goals, which is vital for successful interactions at school and in family activities.
Example Lesson: Bravery in facing challenges
Explanation: Throughout the book, the children face various challenges in an unfamiliar environment but take brave steps to overcome them.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face their own fears and understand that being brave can help them overcome obstacles.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature and wildlife
Explanation: The story provides information about the Australian ecosystem and emphasizes respecting and preserving natural habitats.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate nature, understand the importance of biodiversity, and actively participate in conservation efforts.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: As the characters encounter obstacles, they use critical thinking and creativity to find solutions.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to apply similar strategies when faced with problems in their daily lives, enhancing their analytical and creative thinking abilities.
Example Lesson: Cultural awareness
Explanation: The book explores aspects of Australian culture, including Aboriginal traditions.
Real-World Application: This serves to broaden children’s horizons, fostering an appreciation and respect for diverse cultures around the world.