Stage Fright on a Summer Night
#25 in Magic Tree House Series
What’s inside...
In the 25th installment of the Magic Tree House series, Jack and Annie are transported by their magic tree house to Elizabethan England, where they become actors in one of William Shakespeare's plays. The #1 bestselling chapter book series of all time celebrates 25 years with new covers and a new, easy-to-use numbering system! The show must go on! That's what Jack and Annie learn when the Magic Tree House whisks them back to Elizabethan England. There they meet William Shakespeare himself—one of the greatest writers of all time! But Mr. Shakespeare's having a hard time with some of the actors in his latest show. Are Jack and Annie ready to make a big entrance? Or will it be curtains for Shakespeare? Did you know that there’s a Magic Tree House book for every kid?
Character compass
Jack
Annie
William Shakespeare
Discussion points
How do you think Jack and Annie felt when they realized they were going to perform in front of a large audience? What would you do in a similar situation?
Why do you think Shakespeare needed Jack and Annie's help? What does this tell us about teamwork and asking for help?
What did Jack and Annie learn about themselves by the end of their adventure? Have you ever learned something new about yourself when trying something challenging?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their own feelings about speaking or performing in front of others, relating it to how the characters might have felt.
Discuss the importance of helping others and teamwork, as shown by Jack and Annie's collaboration with Shakespeare. Ask your child about a time they worked with someone else to achieve a goal.
Highlight the growth of characters throughout the story and ask your child how they have grown or changed after facing their own challenges.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fears
Explanation: The story's main character, Jack, deals with stage fright when he is asked to perform a small role in a play. Throughout the book, Jack learns to manage his anxiety with help from his sister, Annie.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face and overcome their own fears, whether it’s performing on stage or speaking in class, developing courage and resilience.
Example Lesson: Historical Appreciation
Explanation: As the characters travel back to Elizabethan England and experience the world of William Shakespeare, readers gain insight into historical settings and cultural achievements.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore and appreciate history and literature, fostering a lifelong interest in learning about past civilizations and their contributions.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: Jack and Annie must collaborate with Shakespeare and other actors to ensure the play is successful, demonstrating how cooperation leads to achieving goals.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of working together with others, whether on school projects, sports teams, or family activities.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Expression
Explanation: The book showcases the creative process of putting together a theatrical performance, emphasizing the value of artistic expression.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to engage in creative activities such as drawing, writing, or performing, which are essential for emotional and cognitive development.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: Despite initial setbacks and the fear of failure, Jack continues to prepare for his role and eventually succeeds, illustrating the rewards of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of persisting through difficulties to achieve success, applicable in schoolwork, hobbies, and personal goals.