The Chocolate Touch
#1 in John Midas Series
What’s inside...
The Chocolate Touch is a story about a boy named John who acquires a magical gift that turns everything his lips touch into chocolate. The gift turns out to be more of a curse as he realizes that too much of a good thing might not be so good after all. In this zany twist on the legend of King Midas and his golden touch, a boy acquires a magical gift that turns everything his lips touch into chocolate! Kids will eat this up for summer reading or anytime! Can you ever have too much of your favorite food? John Midas is about to find out…. The Chocolate Touch has remained a favorite for millions of kids, teachers, and parents for several generations. It's an enjoyable story that pulls in even reluctant readers.
Character compass
John Midas
Susan
Mrs. Midas
Discussion points
How do you think John felt when everything he touched turned into chocolate?
What would you do if you had the power to turn things into chocolate?
Why do you think it's important to be careful what you wish for?
How did John's actions affect the people around him?
What did John learn by the end of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child to guess what might happen based on the cover and title. This primes their imagination and sets the stage for active reading.
Pause at key moments in the story to ask your child how they think the characters are feeling. This helps develop empathy and emotional intelligence.
After reading, connect the story to your child’s life by discussing if there’s anything they wish could change, and the possible consequences.
Encourage your child to think of alternative endings to the story to foster creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Create a fun activity where your child imagines what object they would want to turn into chocolate. This brings an element of play and deeper connection to the story’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Moderation is key
Explanation: In 'The Chocolate Touch', the protagonist John learns that too much of a good thing, even chocolate, can become problematic as everything he touches turns to chocolate.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of balance, whether with food, screen time, or activities, understanding that excess can lead to negative consequences.
Example Lesson: Consider the consequences
Explanation: John’s initial delight in his newfound power turns to dismay as he realizes the consequences of his actions, such as accidentally turning his mother’s gift into chocolate.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think ahead about the possible outcomes of their choices, promoting responsible decision-making.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As John navigates his challenges, he starts to understand and empathize with the struggles of others affected by his actions, leading to personal growth.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to put themselves in others' shoes and recognize how their actions could potentially affect those around them.
Example Lesson: Value of non-material things
Explanation: John eventually sees that not everything valuable is tangible, like love and friendship, which can’t be enjoyed when turned into chocolate.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children appreciate intangible aspects of life such as relationships and emotions over materialistic desires.