Jacob Two-Two on the High Seas
#4 in Jacob Two-Two Series
on Goodreads (35)
What’s inside...
He's back! The late Mordecai Richler had planned more adventures for his small hero and now, with the full support of the Richler family, award-winning author Cary Fagan carries on the tradition in a hilarious story for a whole new generation of Jacob fans. After Jacob Two-Two’s father writes a very important novel, the family makes plans to move to Canada. They board the SS Spring-a-Leak for a journey across the ocean. Jacob Two-Two makes some new acquaintances - the unbelievably handsome Captain Sparkletooth, the acrobatic Bubov Brothers, the failed toy inventor Mr. Peabody, and the giant but gentle Morgenbesser. Most important, he makes friends with young Cindy Snootcastle, who keeps a secret treasure in her pocket. But something is wrong on the SS Spring-a-Leak. A series of clues - a black eye patch; a parrot who squawks 'Apple sauce in your underpants!'; and a sailing ship flying the Jolly Roger - can only mean trouble. Will the intrepid Shapiro and the fearless O'Toole really be left on a desert island? Will Jacob Two-Two be made to walk the plank? Jacob Two-Two on the High Seas is a treat for those who know Jacob and for those who are about to meet one of the most endearing characters in children's literature.
Character compass
Jacob Two-Two
Mr. Two-Two
Captain Sparkletooth
Discussion points
What do you think Jacob felt when he embarked on his high seas adventure? Can you relate to his feelings?
If you were Jacob, what would you have done differently on the ship? Why?
How did Jacob's challenges and experiences on the ship help him grow? Can you think of a time when you faced a challenge and grew from it?
What role did teamwork play in Jacob's adventures? Why is working together important?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in today's world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves as the protagonist, Jacob, which can enhance empathy and understanding of the character’s emotions and decisions.
Discuss the historical and geographical context of the story to add educational depth and help your child understand the setting better.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at crucial points in the story to develop their analytical and forecasting skills.
After reading, relate themes from the book to personal experiences or current events to make the discussion more relevant and meaningful.
Focus on the moral lessons about courage, friendship, and resilience. Discuss how these values can be applied in daily life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: Jacob demonstrates courage when he confronts fears and challenges during his adventures on the high seas. He faces each obstacle bravely, even when he feels uncertain.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to tackle their fears and approach new challenges with bravery, whether it's trying out for a sports team, standing up for themselves, or facing academic challenges.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, Jacob and his friends work together to navigate the high seas and overcome obstacles, showcasing how teamwork can lead to success.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of collaborating with others, whether in school projects, sports, or family activities, emphasizing that cooperation can achieve greater outcomes.
Example Lesson: Creative Problem Solving
Explanation: Jacob often comes up with unique solutions to the problems he and his crew face. His ability to think outside the box helps them navigate tricky situations.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think creatively and apply innovative thinking to solve problems in their day-to-day activities, encouraging them to think differently when faced with challenges.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Jacob takes on responsibilities on the ship, learning from his experiences and understanding the importance of being accountable for his actions.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be mirrored in a child's life as they take on various responsibilities, from household chores to maintaining their personal belongings and commitments at school.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Despite the setbacks Jacob faces on his voyage, he shows resilience by bouncing back and continuing his journey with optimism.
Real-World Application: It teaches children the importance of resilience in everyday life, helping them understand that setbacks are a part of life and the importance of persevering through difficulties.