Maverick
What’s inside...
Maverick is a novel that intertwines the stories of two characters: Lily, a young woman determined to make a name for herself in professional rodeo, and Tom, a 12-year-old boy who befriends a homeless dog named Maverick in a small town. Lily faces challenges in achieving her dreams but perseveres with the support of her friends and family. Meanwhile, Tom faces criticism from townspeople who believe Maverick is dangerous. When a young girl gets lost in the woods, Maverick becomes her only hope of survival, and Tom must find him before it's too late.
Age
9-12
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made Maverick act the way he did? Can you think of a time when you felt similar?
How did Maverick's choices affect those around him? What would you have done differently if you were in his shoes?
What does friendship mean to you? How can you be a good friend like Maverick?
What did you learn from Maverick's adventures? Is there a lesson you can apply in your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Maverick's journey. Listen actively and validate their feelings. Draw parallels to their own experiences to deepen understanding of the book’s themes. Use follow-up questions to extend the conversation, fostering an environment where your child feels comfortable to explore and share.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Through the interactions between characters, 'undefined' showcases how understanding others’ feelings can lead to meaningful friendships.
Real-World Application: Children learn to recognize emotions and understand perspectives, fostering empathetic relationships in school and at play.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The main character faces challenges but learns to overcome them with persistence, teaching children the value of not giving up.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to tackle difficult tasks at school or in learning new skills with determination.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: In the book, problems are often solved through inventive and creative solutions, highlighting the importance of thinking outside the box.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use their imagination in play and problem-solving, enhancing their cognitive flexibility and innovation.
Example Lesson: Respect for Diversity
Explanation: Various characters from different backgrounds work together and learn from each other, promoting inclusivity.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate diversity and foster respect for people from different cultures and backgrounds in their own environments.
Example Lesson: Importance of Learning
Explanation: Characters in the story show growth by learning from their experiences, emphasizing the ongoing process of education.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be curious and enthusiastic about learning both in and outside of school, setting the foundation for lifelong education.