Squad Up
#2 in Power Up Graphic Series
What’s inside...
Sixth graders Rhys and Miles overcome challenges in friendship and gaming in this graphic novel told in multiple art styles and set in both the real world and inside the boys' favorite video game. A sequel to Power Up.
Why read this book
- Engaging teamwork and friendship themes.
- Enhances social skills and cooperative play.
- Stimulates creativity and strategic thinking.
- Interactive and dynamic storytelling.
Discussion points
What do you think makes a team strong and successful, like the characters in 'Squad Up'?
How do the characters in the book solve problems together? Can you think of a time you solved a problem with your friends?
What are some qualities you admire in the characters? Why?
If you were part of the squad, what role would you like to play and why?
How did the story make you feel? Were there any parts that surprised you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, briefly discuss teamwork and its importance. This will set a reflective backdrop as your child connects with the characters in 'Squad Up'.
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences, making personal connections that can enhance empathy and understanding.
Ask open-ended questions that require more than a yes or no response to encourage critical thinking and detailed responses.
After reading, involve your child in a creative activity like drawing their favorite scene or character from the book. This can deepen their engagement and help them express their thoughts about the story.
Praise your child for unique insights or connections they make, reinforcing their confidence and interest in discussing books.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: In 'Squad Up,' the characters work together to solve challenges, emphasizing the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities in school or playing team sports, learning how cooperation leads to achieving goals.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: The book showcases characters facing and resolving conflicts, which highlights effective problem-solving techniques.
Real-World Application: Kids can draw on these examples when they encounter obstacles in their lives, using creativity and critical thinking to find solutions.
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: 'Squad Up' features a diverse group of characters, promoting inclusivity and acceptance of different perspectives.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to appreciate and respect people from varied backgrounds they meet at school and in their communities.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: The story portrays strong friendships and shows how friends support each other in times of need.
Real-World Application: It inspires children to build and maintain supportive friendships, enhancing their social skills and emotional wellbeing.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Reliability
Explanation: Characters in the book learn to take responsibility for their tasks, teaching children about reliability.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being dependable, which they can implement by fulfilling their chores, homework, or commitments to friends.