Super Problems (A Magic Pen Adventure Book 2)
#2 of 3 in Magic Pen Adventures Series
on Goodreads (20)
What’s inside...
In 'Super Problems (A Magic Pen Adventure Book 2)', the protagonist continues their thrilling adventure with the magical pen that brings drawings to life. Facing new challenges and villains, they must use their creativity and the help of friends to overcome the super problems that threaten their world. With clever solutions and unexpected twists, this sequel expands on the imaginative universe established in the first book, delivering excitement and lessons about the power of imagination and teamwork. Before Monster Problems, there is Super Problems, the story of how Blue Hood first learned of the magic pen. Scott draws the comic book adventures of himself, Blue Hood, and their friends as the Alpaca Defense Squad fighting their archenemy the evil Stinky Sock. No one knows Scott's using a magic pen and everything he draws becomes real. The middle schoolers and an alpaca named Bruce are thrown into a real-life superhero adventure! At first, they think it's great. They're living their superhero fantasy! What more could superhero fans want? But saving the day is not as easy as it looks! The Stinky Sock is a clever nemesis, and Bruce the alpaca is obnoxious and demanding. The Alpaca Defense Squad must unite as a team, master their powers, put up with Bruce, and solve their super problem…before the Stinky Sock rules the world!
Discussion points
What would you do if you had a magic pen that could solve any problem?
How do you think teamwork helped the characters solve their challenges in the story?
Why is it important to think creatively when faced with difficult situations?
What did you learn about friendship from the characters’ adventures?
Can you think of a time when you had to solve a problem with your friends? How did it go?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences by asking them about times they've faced similar challenges. Highlight the importance of creativity and teamwork in problem-solving. Validate their thoughts and feelings throughout the discussion to make the book’s themes more personal and relevant.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: In 'Super Problems,' characters must work together to solve challenges presented by the magic pen. Their success is dependent on collaborative efforts and pooling their unique abilities.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of cooperating with others, whether in school projects or during play, recognizing that collective efforts can achieve greater outcomes.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and consequences
Explanation: The story explores the concept of responsibility as the protagonists manage the outcomes of their creative decisions made using the magic pen. It emphasizes understanding and accepting the consequences of one's actions.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to think carefully before acting and to be accountable for their actions, which is crucial in developing personal responsibility.
Example Lesson: Creative problem solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters encounter unexpected scenarios created by the magic pen, requiring them to think creatively to find solutions.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their imagination and creativity in facing challenges and to view problems as opportunities for innovative thinking.
Example Lesson: Understanding and valuing differences
Explanation: As characters from various backgrounds come together in the story, they learn to appreciate and leverage their different strengths and perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children are taught to appreciate diversity and understand that everyone has unique contributions to make, which is important for fostering inclusive environments.
Example Lesson: The power of friendship
Explanation: The protagonists' journey is underpinned by strong friendships that help them navigate their challenges more effectively, showing the importance of supportive relationships.
Real-World Application: This lesson highlights the importance of building and maintaining friendships, which provide emotional support and assist in overcoming life’s obstacles.