Summer Showers (Cupcake Cousins, 2)
#2 in Cupcake Cousins Series
on Goodreads (83)
What’s inside...
It's summertime, and the Bumpus family is growing! Aunt Rosie and Uncle Jonathan are expecting, and the entire family gathers together at Whispering Pines for a baby shower. But with Willow's injured hand and big sisters pushing their way into the kitchen, it looks like Delia and Willow might have to surrender their aprons. After Grandma gives each of the grandchildren a family heirloom, Delia's goes missing. Could it be lost in the cupcake's batter? Follow the tasty recipes once again as Delia and Willow solve the mystery of the missing keepsake and celebrate the arrival of even more cousins in the second book in this charming series. Praise includes positive reviews from Publishers Weekly and Kirkus Reviews, highlighting the entertaining nature of the family tale and the lively celebration of family and friendship.
Discussion points
How did Willow and Delia change from the beginning to the end of the story? What do you think caused these changes?
Why do you think teamwork was important for Willow and Delia during the family wedding? Can you think of a time when you worked as a team?
How do the cousins show they care about each other despite the challenges they face?
What did you learn about handling disagreements from the characters in the book?
If you were a part of the story, what would you have done differently during the wedding preparations?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe their favorite part of the story and explain why it stood out to them. This not only hones their recall skills but also helps them express their thoughts and preferences.
Discuss the challenges faced by the characters and relate them to similar situations your child might have experienced. This builds empathy and personal connection to the story.
Allow your child to express what they might have felt if in the same situations as Willow and Delia. This fosters emotional understanding and critical thinking.
Highlight the importance of teamwork as shown in the book and ask your child about times they had to work with others to achieve a goal. This reinforces the value of collaboration.
Use the story’s setting and events to ask your child to imagine and describe how they would plan or manage a big family event. This enhances creativity and problem-solving skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Throughout 'Summer Showers', the cousins must work together to solve problems and achieve their goals, such as organizing a family wedding.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of cooperating and valuing each other's contributions, skills that are essential in school projects and family activities.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The characters in the story take on tasks appropriate for their age and learn from their mistakes, which teaches them responsibility.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take initiative and be accountable for their actions in their daily routines, such as completing homework or taking care of a pet.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The cousins use their creativity to tackle challenges and make the best out of situations, like when they come up with a unique solution for a wedding cake disaster.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to use their imagination to solve problems and express themselves in creative ways, whether through art, writing, or play.
Example Lesson: The Value of Family and Relationships
Explanation: The story emphasizes strong family bonds and supporting each other during important life events.
Real-World Application: It helps children appreciate and nurture relationships with family members, understanding the importance of family support and togetherness.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The cousins frequently adjust their plans and ideas in response to unexpected situations, demonstrating flexibility.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of being adaptable to change, a crucial skill in navigating new environments and challenges.