Parasite's Power Drain (Superman)
DC Super Heroes. Superman Series
What’s inside...
As the sun sets in METROPOLIS, the electricity suddenly goes out, and crime wave erupts throughout the darkened city. This is a job for SUPERMAN! But as the MAN OF STEEL restores order, an even bigger problem arrives . . . the evil PARASITE. This power-hungry monster won't let SUPERMAN save the day without a fight. If the MAN OF STEEL isn't careful, it'll be lights out for him as well.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-11
Length
56 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Clark Kent / Superman
Parasite
Discussion points
What do you think makes Superman a hero? Is it just his superpowers?
How does Superman handle challenges and setbacks in the story?
What can we learn from the way Superman deals with the Parasite?
How do you think the story would change if Superman didn't have any powers?
Can you think of ways we can be heroes in our own lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, ask your child what they already know about Superman and what makes a hero in their eyes. This can set the stage for deeper discussions during and after reading.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and emotions as they read. If they were in Superman’s place, ask how they might feel or react to certain situations in the book.
Relate the challenges faced by Superman to real life scenarios your child might encounter, such as dealing with bullying or helping others in need.
Post reading, engage your child in a creative activity where they can draw or write about their favorite part or invent a new ending for the story.
Celebrate your child’s responses and insights, no matter how small. This reinforces their confidence and enthusiasm for reading and discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork leads to success
Explanation: In 'Parasite's Power Drain,' Superman collaborates with other heroes to defeat the villain, Parasite. This demonstrates how working together can solve problems that seem insurmountable alone.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of cooperating with others, whether in school projects or playing sports, highlighting that collective effort often leads to superior results.
Example Lesson: Resilience in facing challenges
Explanation: Superman's struggle against Parasite's power-draining abilities shows how he persists despite difficulties. His resilience in overcoming the odds teaches determination.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to persevere through their own difficulties, be it academic challenges or personal setbacks, reinforcing the value of not giving up.
Example Lesson: Understand the consequences of actions
Explanation: Parasite’s actions in the story lead to negative outcomes for himself and others, illustrating the repercussions of one's actions.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that their actions have consequences and guide them to make thoughtful decisions in their interactions and behaviors.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Throughout the story, Superman tries to understand why Parasite acts the way he does, which portrays a deep level of empathy.
Real-World Application: By observing this, children can learn the importance of trying to understand others' perspectives and feelings, fostering a sense of empathy in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Using unique abilities for good
Explanation: Superman uses his unique powers responsibly to help others, which underscores the theme of utilizing one’s special talents for the greater good.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to identify their own unique strengths and think about how they can use them to help others in their community.