The World Is Lava: A Crabgrass Comics Adventure (Volume 3)
#3 in Crabgrass Comics Adventure Series
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
Set in the late-1980s Midwest, this third Crabgrass collection follows best friends Miles and Kevin as they turn everyday moments—waiting for the school bus, mowing the lawn, walking the dog—into epic quests. From treating the living-room furniture as molten lava to surviving a disastrous science-fair volcano, the boys’ boundless imaginations spark humor, mischief, and heartfelt lessons about loyalty and growing up. Tauhid Bondia’s full-color comic strips capture childhood energy while gently addressing family dynamics, cultural differences, and the trial-and-error of learning right from wrong.
Character compass
Kevin
Miles
Mr. Thompson
Mrs. Cash
Cedric
Discussion points
Why do Miles and Kevin call the carpet lava?
How did the boys solve their science-fair disaster?
What makes a good friend when things go wrong?
How does Miles share his culture with classmates?
Tip: Role play these questions
Recreate a harmless 'floor is lava' game to spark talk.
Compare the boys’ chores to your child’s responsibilities.
Discuss how apologizing repairs friendships.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Take responsibility for mistakes
Explanation: The science-fair mishap is fixed only after honest admission.
Real-World Application: Owning up at home or school builds trust.
Example Lesson: Value cultural diversity
Explanation: Miles’s show-and-tell demonstrates pride in heritage.
Real-World Application: Encourage sharing family traditions with friends.
Example Lesson: Perseverance over perfection
Explanation: Saving quarters for the arcade teaches patience.
Real-World Application: Set small goals and celebrate progress.
Example Lesson: Empathy defuses conflict
Explanation: Snow-day rivals become allies through understanding feelings.
Real-World Application: Pause and consider others before reacting in anger.