A Topps League Story: Book Six: Batter Up!
#6 of 6 in A Topps League Story Series
What’s inside...
Diego Prado has spent most of his time on the Pines' bench. But when Danny O'Brien goes on the disabled list, Diego gets a chance to play-and he's on a winning streak! Danny wants one of Chad's 'magic' baseball cards to get back in the game. Diego wants to keep playing. What's a batboy to do?
Discussion points
What do you think makes Jasper a good team player? Can you think of an example from the book?
How did the book show the importance of practice and perseverance?
What would you do if you were in Jasper’s position during a tough game?
How do you think teamwork helps the characters succeed in their games?
How did the characters in the story handle challenges and setbacks?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to reflect on their personal experiences with sports or teamwork and relate those back to Jasper's story. Ask open-ended questions to promote critical thinking and personal connection. Demonstrate enthusiasm and curiosity about their thoughts and feelings about the book to foster a deeper discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The story highlights the importance of working together with teammates to achieve a common goal, demonstrating how each member contributes their unique skills.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of collaborating with others, whether in school projects, sports, or family activities, promoting harmony and shared success.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Characters in the book take ownership of their roles on the baseball team, showing how being accountable leads to personal and group achievement.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be reliable and responsible in their tasks, from completing homework on time to fulfilling household chores.
Example Lesson: Dealing with Failure
Explanation: The book portrays characters facing defeats and mistakes but using those as learning experiences to improve and grow.
Real-World Application: Children learn to view setbacks as opportunities for growth, enhancing resilience and encouraging a positive outlook towards challenges.
Example Lesson: Importance of Practice
Explanation: It is shown how consistent practice and dedication lead to improvement in skills, as seen with the baseball team's progress throughout the story.
Real-World Application: This reinforces the concept that perseverance and dedication are key to mastering any skill, be it academic, artistic, or athletic.
Example Lesson: Sportsmanship
Explanation: The book teaches the value of fair play and respect for opponents, regardless of the game's outcome, emphasizing integrity in competition.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to always engage respectfully and ethically in competitions, fostering a sense of fairness and respect for others.