Trapped in the Mall (Unicorn Club)
#3 in The Unicorn Club Series
on Goodreads (43)
What’s inside...
Locked in the mall after closing time, the Unicorns decide to take full advantage by going crazy at their favorite places, from taking photos at the modeling shop, to trying on forbidden high heels, to ransacking the ice-cream shop. The Unicorn Club got locked in the mall after closing and sees it as a perfect opportunity to explore without any rules. They visit various stores including a photo shop, a shoe store, and plan an ice-cream feast. Excitement fills the air as everyone has different ideas on how to spend their time, but as the oldest Unicorn, the narrator takes charge to guide the group through the night. It's an unforgettable night of freedom, fun, and adventure with no adults around to stop them.
Discussion points
How do you think the characters felt when they were trapped in the mall? Can you relate to their emotions?
What would you have done differently if you were in their situation?
What did the characters learn about teamwork throughout their adventure?
How did the presence of a unicorn change the dynamics between the characters?
Do you think the story would have ended differently if they weren't in a mall? Why or why not?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about being in challenging or unfamiliar situations, similar to the characters in the book.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and ask your child about times they had to work with others to achieve a goal.
Use the magical elements of the story, like the unicorn, to spark imagination. Ask your child what magical creature they would want as a companion in a tricky situation.
Connect the story to real-life by discussing what your child likes about going to the mall and how they might feel if they were in a similar scenario as the characters.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Throughout 'Trapped in the Mall', the members of the Unicorn Club must work together to solve puzzles and find a way out, showcasing the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in group activities at school or in sports, learning to cooperate and value each member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The characters face various challenges that require quick thinking and creativity to overcome, emphasizing the skill of effective problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children approach obstacles in their lives with a calm and creative mindset, whether it's dealing with a difficult homework problem or resolving a disagreement with a friend.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: As the story unfolds, each character takes responsibility for different tasks, highlighting the value of taking charge and being accountable.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of taking responsibility for their actions and duties, be it in completing their chores, homework, or in their interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: Facing the unknown in a locked mall, the characters show bravery, teaching children the virtue of courage when confronting fears.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their own fears and challenges head-on, whether it's trying out for a new sport, standing up for themselves, or tackling a new activity.