The Ice Cream Machine
What’s inside...
A collection of six short stories in a variety of genres and settings, all featuring ice cream. Each story is unique and explores different themes, characters, and plotlines, but ice cream remains a central element throughout. From heartwarming tales to thrilling adventures, this anthology offers something for everyone, all connected by the universal love for ice cream. The stories are illustrated by different artists, including Daniel Salmieri, Charles Santoso, Liniers, Emily Hughes, Nicole Miles, and Seaerra Miller, adding a unique visual element to each tale. Additionally, the paperback version includes six more stories inspired by 'The Ice Cream Machine', written by children and selected by Adam Rubin.
Age
8-12
Length
384 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What would you do if you had an ice cream machine that could make any flavor you imagine?
How do the characters in the story show teamwork or help each other?
Can you think of a time when something didn't go as planned, like in the book? What did you learn from that experience?
If you could invent a machine, what would it do and why?
How does the story make you feel about sharing and creativity?
Tip: Role play these questions
Utilize pauses after reading impactful scenes to ask your child how they feel about the characters’ decisions.
Encourage your child to describe their favorite part of the book and why it stood out to them.
Relate the book’s themes to real-life scenarios your child might encounter to deepen their understanding.
After discussing the questions, ask your child to draw or write about their version of an 'Ice Cream Machine.'
Use expressive reading to keep the story engaging, altering your tone to match the narrative mood.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: In 'The Ice Cream Machine', characters collaborate to fix a malfunctioning ice cream machine, demonstrating the importance of working together to solve problems.
Real-World Application: Children learn that by cooperating with others, they can accomplish tasks and resolve issues more effectively in school projects or family activities.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: The story encourages creative solutions when the characters innovate unique ways to repair the ice cream machine.
Real-World Application: This inspires children to think outside the box and be inventive in their daily play or in overcoming challenges.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Characters in the book take responsibility for the malfunctioning machine, teaching the importance of being accountable for one's actions and commitments.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to take responsibility for their tasks, such as cleaning up their rooms or completing homework.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, the characters persist in fixing the ice cream machine, highlighting the virtue of not giving up easily.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of persistence in learning new skills or completing difficult tasks at school.
Example Lesson: Joy in Sharing
Explanation: Once the machine is fixed, the characters share their ice cream with others, showcasing the joy and value of sharing with the community.
Real-World Application: It teaches children the importance of sharing their own belongings or treats, fostering a sense of community and empathy among peers.