The Storm Maker
#2 in The Elemental Adventures Series
on Goodreads (22)
What’s inside...
Madeline and Rufus Breeze come from a long line of fanmakers and have been keeping people cool for centuries. Despite their village being covered in snow for years, their father continues the tradition. Now, in debt, the Breezes face losing their home to the tyrant Bartholomew Tullock. A stranger arrives with a solution, and Madeline and her father embark on a perilous journey to sell their fans in a hot city nearby. They face numerous challenges including a mini-cyclone, stolen fans, and enemy spies. Meanwhile, Rufus must protect his mother and their home from Tullock and his sinister sidekick, Scratskin. The story is filled with high stakes and whimsical illustrations by David Roberts.
Discussion points
How did the characters in 'The Storm Maker' react when they faced challenges? What can we learn from their reactions?
What role did teamwork play in solving the problems presented in the story? Why is working together important?
In 'The Storm Maker,' how do the characters' emotions change throughout the story? Can you relate to any of their feelings?
What do you think is the main message of 'The Storm Maker'? How could you apply this lesson in your own life?
If you had the power to make storms like the character in the book, how would you use it to help others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they would feel in the situation of the characters and why.
Facilitate critical thinking by discussing possible alternative endings to the story and the potential outcomes for each.
Promote creativity by having your child draw a scene from the book or imagining a new character that could join in the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'The Storm Maker', the protagonist faces numerous challenges as they navigate through a magical storm. Through determination and courage, they overcome these obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of staying strong and persistent, even when faced with difficult situations in school or during social interactions.
Example Lesson: The power of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the adventure, the protagonist collaborates with friends to solve problems and defeat challenges in the storm. This collaboration highlights the importance of working together to achieve common goals.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of cooperation and support in group projects or team sports, encouraging them to actively participate and contribute.
Example Lesson: Creativity as a problem-solving tool
Explanation: The protagonist uses creative thinking to find unconventional solutions to the puzzles posed by the storm, demonstrating that thinking outside the box can be beneficial.
Real-World Application: Children learn to apply creative thinking in their daily challenges, be it in homework, arts, or in interactive play, fostering innovative thinking from an early age.
Example Lesson: Embracing change
Explanation: As the storm transforms the world around the protagonist, they learn to adapt and embrace the changes rather than resisting them, showing growth and maturity.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of adapting to new environments or changes in life, such as moving to a new school or welcoming a new family member.
Example Lesson: Importance of environmental awareness
Explanation: The storm in the story symbolizes the chaos environmental neglect can create, prompting the protagonist and friends to respect and preserve their surroundings.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to be mindful of their environment, promoting actions like recycling, conserving water, and other sustainable practices.