Lizards In The Lunch Line (Swamp Monster In Third Grade, 2) (Turtleback School & Library Binding Edition)
#2 in Swamp Monster In Third Grade Series
What’s inside...
When Jake and his swamp monster cousin, Dominick, decide to transform into kids and attend the third grade, trouble erupts when Dominick teams up with the school bully and starts picking on Jake and his friends. As the two swamp monsters navigate life as human third-graders, they face the challenge of maintaining their human forms, with the impending threat of morphing back into swamp monsters at any moment. The situation escalates when it appears they might transform back in the middle of the cafeteria, adding to the chaos and hilarity of their school adventure.
Character compass
Jake
Discussion points
What do you think about the lizards in the story? How would you feel if lizards appeared in your lunch line?
How do the characters in the book react to the unusual events? What would you do in their place?
What lessons do you think the book teaches about friendship and dealing with unexpected situations?
Can you think of a time when something unexpected happened to you? How did you handle it?
If you could ask any character from the book a question, who would you choose and what would you ask?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the story's characters and scenes to life, which can make the discussion more immersive and engaging for your child.
Relate the scenarios in the book to your child’s personal experiences to make the conversation more relevant and meaningful.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or plot twists in the story, fostering creativity and deeper thinking.
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book, then discuss why they made those choices. This can lead to insights into what resonated most with them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Differences
Explanation: The book showcases characters from different backgrounds, highlighting interactions and friendships with the new swamp monster student.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of inclusivity and respect for diversity, promoting acceptance in their daily interactions at school or in the playground.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: The characters face various challenges that they need to work together to solve, particularly when dealing with the swamp monster in the lunch line.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and collaboratively solve problems they encounter, such as during group activities or school projects.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: The young characters demonstrate bravery when confronting the unknown, particularly with the swamp monster.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to face their own fears and uncertainties, whether it's trying out new activities or standing up in class presentations.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The story promotes understanding through the perspective of the swamp monster, who is new and different from the other students.
Real-World Application: It teaches children to be empathetic towards others who might feel left out or different, helping them build stronger, supportive relationships with their peers.