A Bad Case of Robots (Antelope Books)
#3 in Barnes and The Brains Series
on Goodreads (26)
What’s inside...
The third title in the 'A bad case of...' series follows Giles and his friends Tina and her brother Kevin Quark, known for their inventive spirits. In this story, Tina builds a robot called the Tinatron 100 for the school science project. However, the robot's extreme tidiness leads to chaos at the school science fair, complicating life for Kevin and Giles.
Discussion points
What do you think the robots represent in the story?
How did the characters' feelings about the robots change throughout the book?
Can you think of a time when something unfamiliar seemed scary at first but turned out to be okay?
What would you do if you met a robot like the ones in the book?
How do you think the story would change if it took place today?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book. Use the questions to guide a deeper understanding of the themes, such as fear of the unknown and embracing change. Relate the story to personal experiences or current events to make the discussion more relevant. Praise their responses, whether simple or complex, to reinforce their confidence and interest in analysis.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of creativity
Explanation: In 'A Bad Case of Robots,' the young protagonist uses his inventive skills to control a group of mischievous robots, showcasing the power of creative problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Children can apply creativity to find unique solutions to challenges they face at school or home, enhancing their ability to think outside the box.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes the protagonist's responsibility in managing the robots he accidentally unleashed, underscoring the consequences of one's actions.
Real-World Application: This story serves as a practical lesson in responsibility for children, teaching them to consider the impact of their decisions and actions in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: As the story progresses, the protagonist learns to collaborate with his friends to manage the robots, highlighting the effectiveness of working together.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to collaborate with others to achieve common goals, whether it's in group projects, sports, or family activities, fostering a spirit of cooperation.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Confronted with unintended chaos from the robots, the protagonist adapts his strategies multiple times, demonstrating flexibility in problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of being adaptable in different situations, enhancing their ability to cope with unexpected changes or challenges in real life.