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The Misadventures of Max Crumbly 2: Middle School Mayhem

#2 of 3 in The Misadventures of Max Crumbly Series

4.25
on Goodreads (2,453)

What’s inside...

In 'The Misadventures of Max Crumbly 2: Middle School Mayhem,' protagonist Max navigates middle school challenges, dealing with bullies, crushes, and fitting in while trying to protect his school from criminals. His humorous and relatable journey is documented in his journal as he faces the mayhem with wit and courage.
In series
Series reading

Sequential

Age

8-11

Length

256 pages

Text complexity

Character compass

Max Crumbly
Erin Madison
Ralphie
Tucker
Moose
Doug 'Thug' Thurston

Discussion points

What do you think Max learned about himself by the end of the story?
How did Max handle the challenges he faced in school? How would you handle similar situations?
Which character in the book would you like to be friends with and why?
Can you think of a time when you felt as adventurous as Max? What happened?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in our hometown?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage open discussion by sharing your own school experiences and challenges you faced when you were their age.
Ask your child to draw a scene from the book and describe why it stood out to them, promoting deeper connection with the story.
Relate themes from the book to real-life situations your child may encounter to help them apply the lessons Max learns.
Read some passages together aloud, placing emphasis on exciting moments to make the reading experience more lively and engaging.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: Courage in adversity
Explanation: Max Crumbly faces numerous challenges and obstacles in his middle school, demonstrating resilience and bravery.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of facing their fears and overcoming challenges, whether it's dealing with bullies or speaking up in class.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, Max relies on the help and support of his friends to navigate difficult situations.
Real-World Application: Children can see the significance of building and maintaining supportive friendships, helping them foster positive relationships in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Creativity and problem-solving
Explanation: Max often uses his imagination and creative thinking to get out of tough spots, showing that thinking outside the box can offer solutions.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to use creative thinking in their daily problems, enhancing their problem-solving skills and innovative thinking.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and making amends
Explanation: When Max makes mistakes, he takes responsibility and works to make things right, showing the importance of accountability.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of owning up to their actions and trying to rectify their mistakes, which is crucial for personal development.
Example Lesson: Perseverance through failures
Explanation: Max encounters setbacks but continues to try his best, a testament to the ‘never give up’ attitude.
Real-World Application: Children learn that persistence is key to success in any endeavor and that failures are just stepping stones in the learning process.