The Flying Classroom
on Goodreads (5,316)
What’s inside...
A comical school story by the author of "Emil and the Detectives". In the Christmas at the Johann Sigismund School there's plenty of fun and excitement for Martin, Matthias, Johnny, Sebastian and Uli, including a flying classroom, the kidnap of a friend, a parachute descent, and a family reunion.
Age
8-12
Length
224 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Martin Thaler
Sebastian Frank
Uli Von Simmern
Matthias Selbmann
Jonathan Trotz
Dr. Robert Uthofft
Dr. Johann BöKh
Discussion points
What did you think about the adventures the characters experienced in 'The Flying Classroom'? Which adventure was your favorite and why?
How did the characters in the story show friendship? Can you share an example of a time when you helped a friend or a friend helped you?
What lessons did the characters learn by the end of the book? Have you learned similar lessons in your own life?
If you could add another character to 'The Flying Classroom', what qualities would they have and why?
How do you think the story would change if it took place today? What modern-day elements would you include?
Tip: Role play these questions
Prior to discussing the book, skim through it to refresh the themes and main points. This helps in directing the conversation effectively.
Encourage your child to express their opinions and feelings about the story, relating it to their own experiences whenever possible.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to dig deeper into their understanding and perspective.
Validate their feelings and thoughts to create an open and non-judgmental atmosphere.
Connect the themes of the book to real-life events or personal family stories to make the discussion more relatable and impactful.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: In 'The Flying Classroom', the characters demonstrate strong bonds and loyalty to each other, overcoming obstacles together.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of supporting friends and working together, which helps them build lasting relationships.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout the story, the students face various challenges but show bravery and resolve to tackle them head-on.
Real-World Application: Instills the value of facing fears and difficulties in real life, encouraging children to be brave when encountering their own challenges.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: The book showcases the students engaging in creative acts and imaginative play which enrich their experiences.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to use their imagination and creativity in solving problems and expressing themselves.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: Characters in the book experience the outcomes of their decisions, teaching them responsibility.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand that their actions have impacts and teaches them to think before acting.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The students learn to understand and empathize with each other's unique situations and feelings.
Real-World Application: Promotes emotional intelligence in children, helping them to develop a deeper understanding of and compassion for others in their everyday interactions.