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#12 in The Magic Tree House Series

Vacation Under the Volcano

illustrations by
4.02
on Goodreads (14,135)

What’s inside...

In this thrilling installment of the Magic Tree House series, siblings Jack and Annie are transported to ancient Pompeii, right before the town is destroyed by a volcano. They must brave the ash clouds and rivers of lava to rescue a friend and retrieve a precious book for Morgan le Fay, but time is running out.
In series
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
74 pages
Text complexity

Discussion points

What do you think it would feel like to travel back in time to ancient Pompeii?
Why do you think Jack and Annie were sent to Pompeii? What is their mission?
How do the characters react to the challenges they face in the story? What can we learn from their reactions?
If you were in Pompeii during the eruption, what would you have done?
What are some ways that people today can prepare for natural disasters, like volcanoes?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story's setting and ask how they might feel in similar situations.
Discuss the historical context of Pompeii and the significance of the volcanic eruption to enhance understanding and curiosity.
Focus on character development throughout the book and ask your child to describe how Jack and Annie grow from their experiences.
Link the novel's events to current events by discussing modern-day disaster preparedness and safety measures.
After reading, consider researching more about ancient Pompeii together, to further enrich your child's learning and engagement with the topic.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: The importance of historical knowledge
Explanation: In 'Vacation Under the Volcano,' Jack and Annie travel back in time to ancient Pompeii, where their understanding of history becomes crucial for navigating the challenges they face.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and explore history, understanding that knowledge of the past can inform their decisions and actions in the present.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: Throughout the book, Jack and Annie must work together to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles, demonstrating how teamwork can achieve outcomes that might be impossible alone.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to collaborate with others, whether in school projects, sports, or family activities, highlighting that cooperation can lead to success.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of danger
Explanation: The characters show bravery as they venture near an erupting volcano to complete their mission, teaching the reader about courage.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their own fears and challenges bravely, whether it's trying out for a sports team, standing up against bullying, or tackling difficult tasks.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Jack and Annie often encounter problems that they must think creatively to solve, such as using historical clues to make decisions.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and creatively in solving their own problems, enhancing their analytical skills in daily life.
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: Despite various setbacks, the siblings persist in their quest, underscoring the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the value of persistence in overcoming difficulties, whether in academic, personal, or social contexts.