Polar Bears Past Bedtime
#12 of 39 in The Magic Tree House Series
What’s inside...
The story follows Jack and Annie who are whisked away to the Arctic where they meet a polar bear mother and her cubs. They learn about the freezing conditions and are told to solve a riddle in order to return to their home. The #1 bestselling chapter book series of all time celebrates 25 years with new covers and a new, easy-to-use numbering system! It's icicle city…when the Magic Tree House whisks Jack and Annie to the frozen Arctic. Luckily, a seal hunter on a dogsled lends them warm clothes. Unluckily, they get stuck on cracking ice. Will the giant polar bear save them? Or will Jack and Annie become frozen dinners? Did you know that there’s a Magic Tree House book for every kid?
Character compass
Jack
Annie
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to visit the Arctic? How do you think the polar bears feel about their home?
Why do you think the polar bears need the ice and cold environment? What challenges do they face when their habitat changes?
If you could help the polar bears, what would you do?
How did Jack and Annie change throughout their adventure? What did they learn about courage and teamwork?
What was your favorite part of the book, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing 'Polar Bears Past Bedtime,' use descriptive imagery to paint a vivid picture of the Arctic environment. Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story and its characters. Relate the challenges faced by the polar bears to issues in your child's world, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding. Highlight the themes of adventure and discovery to motivate your child to learn more about diverse environments and animal habitats.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Jack and Annie show bravery as they navigate challenges in the Arctic, learning how to survive harsh conditions.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to face unfamiliar situations with bravery and to understand that they can overcome difficulties with perseverance.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, Jack and Annie must work together to solve problems and find their way back home, demonstrating the importance of cooperation.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the benefits of working with others to achieve common goals and fosters collaborative skills in group settings.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The siblings learn about polar bears and the environment, highlighting the importance of understanding and respecting wildlife and nature.
Real-World Application: Instills in children the importance of environmental conservation and teaches them about the impact of human activities on ecosystems.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning
Explanation: Jack and Annie's adventure ignites curiosity about the world, sparking an interest in geography and different cultures.
Real-World Application: Promotes intellectual curiosity and encourages children to explore educational subjects and learn about diverse environments and cultures.