Norm the Narwhal's Quest for Treasure
What’s inside...
Norm the Narwhal has a secret: he is a pirate and collector of treasures. Or is he? Norm’s friends do not think his objects are treasure until they see what he has been creating. In this heartwarming tale, young readers help Norm pick out objects that will fit on his tusk. Mathematical ideas, including the concept of topological “holes,” are encountered along the way. Travel with Norm and discover that there is more to the world than meets the eye, and that the most ordinary things can be treasure too.
Age
2-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Norm The Narwhal
Discussion points
What do you think Norm learned during his quest for treasure?
How did Norm's friends help him on his adventure?
If you were Norm, what would have been your favorite part of the quest?
How do you feel about the way Norm solved problems he faced?
If you could add another character to the story, who would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a comfortable and distraction-free reading zone to enhance focus and facilitate deeper conversation.
Use expressive voices for different characters during the reading to make the story more engaging and enjoyable.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Norm's world, asking how they would feel or react in similar situations.
After reading, relate the themes of the story to your child’s own experiences to make the conversation more personal and meaningful.
Highlight Norm’s qualities, such as bravery and problem-solving, and discuss with your child how they can embody these characteristics in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Norm the Narwhal's continuous efforts to find the treasure despite encountering various obstacles showcase the importance of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of persisting through challenges, whether it's completing a difficult puzzle or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Norm's interactions with other sea creatures who help him in his quest highlight the power of working together.
Real-World Application: Kids see the benefits of collaborating with others, which can be applied during group activities at school or in team sports.
Example Lesson: Curiosity
Explanation: Norm's adventure begins with his curiosity about the legendary treasure, which drives him to explore new areas of the ocean.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and explore new topics in academics and daily life, fostering a lifelong love of learning.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout his journey, Norm faces various challenges that require quick thinking and creative solutions.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of critical thinking and finding innovative solutions to obstacles they may encounter.
Example Lesson: Respect for the environment
Explanation: As Norm explores the ocean, he learns to interact with the environment in a way that respects its inhabitants and natural beauty.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of environmental conservation and encourages actions like recycling and careful interaction with nature.