#2 in My Weird School Series
Mrs Kormel Is Not Normal!
What’s inside...
In this installment of the My Weird School series, A.J. and his friends take a field trip to the post office where they meet Mrs. Kormel, the weirdest bus driver in the history of the world, and she's driving them all bonkers.
Character compass
Discussion points
Why do you think Mrs. Kormel drives the bus the way she does? What would you do if you were in her place?
How do the characters react to the unusual situations in the story? Can you relate to any of their reactions?
What do you think is the most important lesson that can be learned from the adventures on the bus?
How would you have helped solve the problems faced by the characters on the bus?
If you could ask Mrs. Kormel one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your thoughts on Mrs. Kormel's unique characteristics and ask your child what they think makes her different.
Discuss each character's reactions in the story and compare them with how your child might react in similar situations, fostering empathy and self-awareness.
Encourage your child to think critically about the story's resolution and whether they think it was effective or could have been handled differently.
Use the book's sense of humor to discuss the distinction between the literal and the figurative, enhancing their cognitive flexibility.
Prompt your child to imagine alternative endings or continuations of the story, fostering creativity and narrative skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: In the book, protagonist A.J. and his classmates experience a series of comedic misadventures with their bus driver, Mrs. Kormel. These scenarios prompt them to consider Mrs. Kormel’s feelings and challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can use this lesson to understand and share the feelings of others in their own lives, helping them to build stronger, empathetic relationships with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The unexpected changes in routine, like a new bus route or driver, teach A.J. and the students how to adapt to new situations.
Real-World Application: This prepares children to be flexible and adaptable in the face of changes or disruptions in their daily routines, such as moving to a new school or adapting to a new family setting.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: The book showcases the children's efforts to navigate the confusing scenarios caused by their quirky bus driver, requiring them to think on their feet.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills when they encounter problems or unfamiliar situations.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for School Staff
Explanation: Through the narrative, readers see how school staff, such as bus drivers, play important roles in students’ daily lives, often going unnoticed.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop respect and appreciation for all individuals who contribute to their education, encouraging them to acknowledge and appreciate their efforts.