The Dumbest Idea Ever
#1 of 1 in The Dumbest Idea Ever! Series
on Goodreads (4,179)
What’s inside...
At thirteen, Jimmy was a popular and academically successful student who excelled at basketball. However, his life took a downward turn when he contracted chicken pox and missed an important game, followed by a bout of pneumonia which led to missed school and declining grades. In this autobiographical tale, renowned comics creator Jimmy Gownley shares his journey from an eager-to-please boy to a teenage comic book artist, and reveals how what seemed like the dumbest idea ever ultimately became the best thing that ever happened to him.
Character compass
Jimmy Gownley
Tony
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the main character to pursue their idea despite others calling it dumb?
How did the main character's friendships influence their journey?
What challenges did the main character face and how did they overcome them?
Can you think of a time when you had an idea that others doubted? How did you handle it?
What lesson did you learn from the story that you can apply in your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions to foster deeper thinking and allow the child to express their ideas fully.
Relate the themes of the book to the child’s personal experiences to make the conversation more relatable and engaging.
Encourage the child to think critically about the obstacles the characters face and discuss possible alternative solutions.
Highlight the importance of perseverance and confidence, discussing with your child how these traits can be applied in their life.
Be attentive and responsive to the child’s observations and opinions, reinforcing their interest and engagement in the discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist of 'The Dumbest Idea Ever' faces numerous challenges but continually pushes forward to achieve his goals.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that despite difficulties in school or their personal lives, persisting through challenges can lead to success.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, friendships play a crucial role in supporting the main character’s journey, showing how friends can help overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of building and maintaining friendships, and how friends can be a source of strength and encouragement.
Example Lesson: Learning from mistakes
Explanation: The main character makes several mistakes but uses them as learning opportunities, which significantly contributes to his growth.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to see mistakes not as failures, but as chances to learn and improve, a vital skill in all areas of life.
Example Lesson: Creativity and innovation
Explanation: The protagonist’s journey highlights how creative thinking and new ideas can lead to unexpected success.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to embrace their creativity in problem-solving and expressing themselves in various forms.