McTavish Goes Wild
#2 in The McTavish Stories Series
on Goodreads (101)
What’s inside...
It's summer and the Peachey family is in crisis - again. Youngest child Betty Peachey is trying to persuade the family to go to the Faraway Campsite of Ma Peachey's idyllic dreams. But most of the Peacheys are still resisting. Pa Peachey is convinced that terrible dangers lurk in the 'wild', Ollie only cares about whether there's a 'disco', and Ava has her nose deep in philosophy books. However, the marvellous McTavish, always one step ahead of the Peacheys, quietly works out a way to get the family enjoying their holiday together.
Character compass
Mctavish
Pa Peachey
Ma Peachey
Betty Peachey
Ollie Peachey
Ava Peachey
Discussion points
What do you think made McTavish decide to go wild? How would you feel in his situation?
How do each of the family members react to McTavish's behavior? Who do you relate to most and why?
What lessons do you think the family learned by the end of the story? Can you think of a time when you learned something important from a surprising situation?
If you were to write the next adventure for McTavish, what would it be about and why?
How do the illustrations help tell the story? Do they change how you imagine the characters and settings?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading each chapter, ask your child what they think might happen next, fostering prediction skills.
Discuss the motivations behind characters' actions to enhance comprehension and empathy towards differing perspectives.
After finishing the book, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene, deepening their connection and memory of the story.
Create a ‘What if?’ scenario where your child imagines alternative endings or plot twists to stimulate creativity.
Praise your child’s responses and thoughts to boost confidence in expressing their ideas and opinions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'McTavish Goes Wild', the family works together to navigate camping and the wilderness, showcasing how collaboration leads to overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children learn to collaborate with peers and family members to solve problems and achieve common goals, fostering a spirit of cooperation.
Example Lesson: Responsibility towards nature
Explanation: Throughout their adventure, McTavish and the family learn to respect and care for the environment, emphasizing conservation and the beauty of the natural world.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be mindful of their environment, promotes participation in recycling, and teaches the importance of preserving natural spaces.
Example Lesson: Adaptability and problem solving
Explanation: The characters frequently adapt to unexpected challenges during their camping trip, demonstrating resilience and innovative thinking.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the value of adapting to new situations and thinking creatively to navigate day-to-day challenges.
Example Lesson: The joy of exploration
Explanation: The book highlights the excitement and educational value of exploring new places and trying new activities, sparking curiosity and adventure.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to engage in exploration, whether in a backyard or a new city, enhancing their learning and observational skills.