The X-Files: Earth Children Are Weird
#2 of 13 in Pop Classics Series
What’s inside...
One the most beloved TV shows of all time is now a sweet, silly, sci-fi bedtime story! In The X Files: Earth Children Are Weird, best pals Dana (Scully) and Fox (Mulder) have pitched a tent in the backyard for a sleepover. But the night is full of strange sounds, lights, and shadows. Surely there’s a rational, scientific explanation for everything . . . or is there? With beautiful illustrations of pint-sized Dana and Fox, this humorous and not-scary-at-all story will introduce the cult TV show to an entire new generation of fans.
Character compass
Fox Mulder
Dana Scully
Discussion points
What do you think Fox and Dana might find during their campout adventure? Why?
How do you feel when you encounter something unknown or strange?
Why is it important for Fox and Dana to work together when exploring?
What would you do if you were in Fox and Dana’s place and saw something weird?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine their own outdoor adventure and discuss what tools or friends they would bring along.
Discuss the value of curiosity and courage in the face of the unknown, relating it to Fox and Dana's experiences.
Prompt your child to consider the importance of teamwork and ask for examples from their own life where working with others helped them overcome a challenge.
Use expressive reading to enhance the mysterious and adventurous elements of the story, making the reading experience more immersive and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: In the story, Dana and Fox showcase a strong bond and teamwork while investigating the mysteries in their backyard, demonstrating how friends can support and rely on each other during adventures or uncertain situations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and nurture friendships, understanding that having a supportive friend can make challenging situations easier and more enjoyable.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: The protagonists’ venture into the unknown exemplifies curiosity and the desire to learn more about the world around them. Their journey encourages questioning and seeking answers.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to explore their surroundings, ask questions, and learn from their experiences, contributing to their cognitive and social development.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing the unknown
Explanation: Despite encountering strange and potentially frightening scenarios, Dana and Fox display bravery. They confront these challenges head-on, showcasing courage.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and understand that being brave doesn’t mean not being scared, but rather facing fears and overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: As the characters confront various challenges, they use their wits and resources to find solutions and unravel the mysteries, which is a demonstration of effective problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and creatively in solving their own problems, whether at school or in their personal lives.
Example Lesson: The value of imagination
Explanation: The fantastical elements of the story highlight the power and joy of imagination, as the characters envision bizarre scenarios and creatures.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to develop their creative thinking and visualization skills, which are important for academic success and personal expression.