Kid Normal and the Shadow Machine
#3 of 4 in Kid Normal Series
What’s inside...
In the third installment of the Kid Normal series, Murph Cooper and the Super Zeroes face off against their nemesis Magpie and the super smarmy Nicholas Knox, who have teamed up to develop a machine that can give people superpowers. With the world's most dangerous supervillains on the loose after a dramatic jailbreak, the Super Zeroes must use their wits, courage, and friendship to overcome this shadowy threat and save the World of Heroes. They chase down the villains and work to bring down the machine, facing challenges and using their unusual talents to triumph against the odds.
Character compass
Murph Cooper
Billy Lee
Stan
Nellie O’Toole
Mary Chevalier
Magpie
Discussion points
What do you think makes someone a hero? Does Kid Normal have qualities of a hero?
How do the characters in the book use teamwork to overcome challenges? Can you think of a time when you worked with others to solve a problem?
What are some differences between the 'normal' world and the world of superheroes in the story?
How do the characters in the book handle feeling different or not fitting in? What can we learn from them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts on heroism by relating it to their personal experiences or people they consider heroes in real life.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and collaboration, and relate it to instances in your child's life where working together helped solve a problem.
Explore themes of diversity and acceptance by discussing the 'normal' versus 'super' aspects within the book and how these themes play out in everyday life.
Use examples from the book to talk about overcoming challenges and the importance of persistence and resilience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Uniqueness
Explanation: In 'Kid Normal and the Shadow Machine,' the protagonist, Murph, shows that being ordinary in a school of superheroes is in itself extraordinary. This notion underlines the entire narrative.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate their unique traits and understand that everyone has something special about them, even if it's not immediately obvious.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The story emphasizes the power of working together, as Murph and his friends combine their 'normal' skills to tackle challenges. This collaborative spirit is pivotal in overcoming obstacles throughout the book.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to collaborate with others, pooling their diverse skills to solve problems or achieve common goals in school projects or sports.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Fears
Explanation: Murph confronts his fears head-on, especially when dealing with the antagonist, Nektar. His bravery in spite of feeling out of place among 'super' peers is inspirational.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of confronting fears and the growth that comes from stepping out of one's comfort zone.
Example Lesson: Importance of Responsibility
Explanation: Throughout the book, Murph learns to take responsibility for both his actions and the well-being of his friends. This theme is a driving force behind the storyline, showing how taking responsibility leads to positive outcomes.
Real-World Application: Young readers can be motivated to take ownership of their actions and understand how their choices can affect others, encouraging responsible behavior in their community.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Resourcefulness
Explanation: The characters often use creative thinking to navigate tricky situations, particularly when traditional methods don't work due to their lack of superpowers.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by using creativity in their problem-solving strategies, whether in academics, play, or daily challenges.