The Last Last-Day-of-Summer
#1 of 3 in A Legendary Alston Boys Adventure Series
What’s inside...
The Last Last-Day-of-Summer is a captivating tale about Otto and Sheed, two adventurous cousins who accidentally extend the last day of summer by freezing time with a mysterious camera. As local sleuths in their Virginia town, they navigate a world where time stands still, uncovering secrets and working together to save their town and each other. The story celebrates imagination, familial bonds, and heroism, while offering a magical space for children to explore their own potential as heroes.
Character compass
Otto Alston
Sheed Alston
Mr. Flux
Discussion points
How did Otto and Sheed's adventures challenge their understanding of time and responsibility?
What qualities make Otto and Sheed great heroes, and can you think of any ways you are similar to them?
How do the different characters in the book handle unexpected challenges, and what can we learn from them?
Why do you think the author chose to mix real-life issues with magical elements, and how did it affect the story?
If you had a chance to freeze time like Otto and Sheed, what would you choose to do and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences, fostering a deeper personal connection with the book's themes.
Discuss the moral decisions characters make in the book and ask your child what they would have done in similar situations, enhancing their critical thinking.
Explore the concept of time together, discussing how it's valued differently by people and how it impacts their lives, linking it back to the book's narrative.
Create a fun activity where your child imagines their own fantastical adventure, encouraging creative thinking and making connections to the story's inventive elements.
Highlight the teamwork between Otto and Sheed, prompting discussions about cooperation and collaboration in real life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of Time
Explanation: In 'The Last Last-Day-of-Summer,' the protagonists, Otto and Sheed, learn the importance of cherishing time as they battle against time stopping forever in their town.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate everyday moments and understand that time is precious, encouraging them to make the most of their days and value the time they spend with family and friends.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: Throughout the story, Otto and Sheed display courage as they take on various challenges. Their bravery in facing the unknown serves as a central theme.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to face their fears, whether it's trying new activities, standing up for themselves, or dealing with changes in life.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: The cousins, Otto and Sheed, demonstrate effective teamwork as they collaborate to solve the mysteries and deal with supernatural events in their town.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to work cooperatively in group settings such as school projects, sports teams, or during playtime with peers, understanding that teamwork often leads to better outcomes.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Problem Solving
Explanation: The story highlights how Otto and Sheed persistently tackle problems and think critically, even when faced with daunting magical dilemmas.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of perseverance and resilience when solving both simple and complex problems, and encourages them to apply critical thinking in their studies and personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: As the summer comes to an end, Otto and Sheed learn to accept and embrace change, understanding that it's an inevitable part of life.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children learn to adapt to changes, whether it's transitioning to a new school year, moving to a new place, or adjusting to any new situations in their lives.