Two of a Kind #37: Hocus-pocus
#37 in Two of a Kind Diaries Series
on Goodreads (182)
What’s inside...
A fortune teller at the local carnival makes some uncanny predictions about Mary-Kate's future, while Ashley investigates why her friend Jill is so frightened by the carnival's clowns. Mary-Kate meets a cool, teenage fortune teller who tells her fortune. While all the predictions come true, every choice Mary-Kate makes based on the fortune-teller's predictions seems to destroy her friendships. Ashley tries to convince Mary-Kate to make decisions on her own-and while she's at it, she discovers she has the power to foresee trouble too-this time for the phony fortune teller.
Discussion points
What did you think about the magic tricks described in the book? How would you feel if you could perform them?
Which character in the story did you relate to the most and why?
How do the twins work together to solve problems? Can you think of a time when you had to work with someone else to solve a problem?
What do you think is the most important message in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts on the characters' decisions, and relate those decisions to real-life scenarios they may face.
Discuss the concept of teamwork as shown in the book. Pair this with examples from your child’s daily life, stressing the importance of cooperation and communication.
Use the magic elements from the story to spark creativity. Ask your child how they would use magic in their day-to-day activities or in making their tasks easier.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'Hocus-pocus', Mary-Kate and Ashley work together to organize a magic show, demonstrating how collaboration leads to success.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working with others to achieve common goals, which can be applied in school projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The twins use their imagination to create an engaging magic show, highlighting the power of creative thinking.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their creativity in solving problems or in expressing themselves through art, crafts, or storytelling.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The characters take on the responsibility of planning and executing the event, which teaches the value of commitment and hard work.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by taking responsibility for their chores, homework, or taking care of a pet.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Challenges
Explanation: Throughout the book, the twins face various challenges in setting up the show but manage to overcome them, which shows resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that facing obstacles is a part of life and that perseverance can help them overcome these challenges.
Example Lesson: The Joy of Sharing
Explanation: By the end of the book, the magic show is not only a success but also brings joy to others, emphasizing the importance of sharing happiness.
Real-World Application: Children learn that sharing their achievements or positive experiences can bring happiness to friends and family, fostering a sense of community.