The Magic Tree House Series
To the Future, Ben Franklin!
on Goodreads (974)
What’s inside...
Get whisked away through time in the magic tree house with Jack and Annie in the #1 bestselling series--and meet famous Founding Father and inventor Ben Franklin! Jack and Annie know all about Ben Franklin. He was a founding father, a journalist, and a famous inventor! When the magic tree house whisks them back to meet the man himself, they're not sure what their mission is. But Ben Franklin has a mission of his own. Intrigued by Jack and Annie, he's curious to learn more about where they came from. And very curious about their tree house. . . .
Age
6-9
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Discussion points
What do you think life was like in Ben Franklin’s time? How would you feel living without some of the technology we have today?
If you could invent something like Ben Franklin, what would it be and why?
Ben Franklin was not only an inventor but also a diplomat. Why do you think it's important to have good communication skills?
How do you think Ben Franklin’s inventions and discoveries still impact us today?
If you had the chance to time travel like Jack and Annie, where would you go and what historical figure would you like to meet?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the historical setting of the book to their current environment by comparing and contrasting elements such as communication, transportation, and daily chores.
Inspire creativity by discussing inventions and asking your child what gadget, tool, or machine they would like to invent to solve a current problem they face or have noticed.
Highlight the importance of skills like diplomacy and negotiation showcased by Ben Franklin by role-playing different scenarios where these skills could be useful.
Link the past to the present by discussing how Ben Franklin’s contributions to science and society are still relevant and influential today.
Foster a deeper connection with historical figures by asking your child which historical figure they admire and would like to meet, and discuss what questions they would ask them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The book showcases Benjamin Franklin’s adventures through time, emphasizing his curiosity and willingness to explore the unknown.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be inquisitive and open-minded, exploring new subjects and ideas both in and out of the classroom.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: As characters in the story encounter challenges, they demonstrate critical thinking and problem solving, reflecting Franklin’s own innovative spirit.
Real-World Application: Children learn to approach obstacles in their lives creatively, thinking through problems and crafting solutions, much like Franklin did with his inventions.
Example Lesson: Value of History
Explanation: Through vivid historical settings, the book instills an appreciation for past events and figures, demonstrating how history shapes our present.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the importance of history in shaping the world, encouraging them to learn more about historical figures and events.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Ben Franklin and the characters work together to navigate through time, showcasing the power of collaboration and teamwork.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of cooperating with others to achieve common goals, both in school projects and in everyday activities.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Throughout their journey, characters face setbacks yet remain determined and resilient, mirroring the resilience shown by historical figures like Franklin.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to stay persistent in the face of difficulties, understanding that setbacks can be overcome with determination and resilience.