Amazing Esme
#2 of 3 in Amazing Esme Series
What’s inside...
Esme is tired of the constant practice her mother demands to perfect her circus performance. Seeking to spice up her act, she recruits her cousins from Maclinkey Castle who own exotic pets. Disaster strikes during a high wire performance, causing the animals to fall and leaving one, Donk, unconscious. The town accuses Circus Miranda of animal cruelty, leading to dwindling crowds. Esme's punishment is to run the sweet treats stand, where she concocts a plan involving delicious treats and teamwork to win back the audience and save the circus.
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of Esme's adventures and why?
How do you think Esme felt when she came up with her amazing ideas?
If you could create your own invention like Esme, what would it be and how would it help others?
Esme faced some challenges in the book. Can you think of a time when you faced a challenge and how you overcame it?
Esme helps her family in unique ways. How do you like to help out at home?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading: Change your tone and pace to match the exciting parts of Esme's adventures to keep your child engaged.
Ask open-ended questions: After reading, ask questions that require more than a yes or no answer to encourage deeper thinking and conversation.
Relate the story to real life: Discuss times when your child had to solve a problem or come up with a creative solution, much like Esme.
Encourage creativity: After reading, engage your child in a drawing or crafting activity where they create their own invention inspired by the book.
Praise efforts: Applaud your child's responses and ideas during the discussion to build their confidence and encourage participation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and Innovation
Explanation: Esme's adventures at the circus demonstrate her ability to think creatively and come up with unique solutions to problems.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use their imagination to solve problems and think outside the box in their daily activities and play.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Throughout the book, Esme works together with her circus friends to put on a spectacular show, highlighting the importance of working together.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in school projects or team sports, teaching children the value of cooperation and joint effort.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: Esme faces various challenges but doesn't give up. Her determination helps her to overcome obstacles and succeed.
Real-World Application: Children learn to keep trying despite difficulties, whether it's learning a new skill or dealing with everyday challenges.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: Esme shows empathy by understanding the feelings of the animals and people around her, making sure everyone is happy and safe.
Real-World Application: Children can practice empathy by being considerate of others' feelings and helping those in need in their community.
Example Lesson: Joy of Learning
Explanation: The book showcases Esme's love for learning new circus acts and tricks, inspiring a passion for acquiring new knowledge and skills.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore new interests and hobbies, fostering a lifelong love of learning.