Doppol - Smart Book Recommendations

#4 in The Bailey School Kids Series

Angels Don't Know Karate

3.81
on Goodreads (832)

What’s inside...

The Bailey School kids are surprised to find their new karate teacher is a woman and she seems to have a hidden agenda. Strange events make them wonder, is their new karate teacher really an angel?

Why read this book

  • Mystery-filled adventure encourages critical thinking and engagement.
  • Models positive friendships and cooperation among characters.
  • Emphasizes empowerment and self-defense awareness for kids.
  • Ideal for shared reading, enhancing parent-child bonding.

The Big Picture

  • Promotes bravery and the power of help.
  • Encourages empathy, understanding beyond appearances.
  • Discusses handling strangers, standing up for others.
  • Highlights importance of unlikely friendships.

Diversity & Representation

  • Highlights varied backgrounds through unique character interactions.
  • Encourages acceptance and understanding among diverse groups.
  • Portrays different lifestyles respectfully and authentically.
Book in series
#4
Age
8-10
Length
58 pages
Text complexity
developing

Character Compass

Discussion points

Why do you think the character Bailey believes that angels don't know karate? What does this say about her understanding of angels?
How do the characters in the book show courage or bravery? Can you think of a time when you were brave?
What role do friendship and teamwork play in this story? Why are these important in solving problems?
How do the characters change from the beginning to the end of the book? What do you think caused these changes?
If you could ask any character in the book a question, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about the story by asking them how they might react in similar situations as the characters. Validate their feelings and perspectives to foster a deeper understanding of the book’s themes. Share a personal story where you faced a similar challenge or learned a similar lesson as those portrayed in the book, creating a connection between your experiences and the story.

What parents love

Great mix of humor and lessons.
Keeps young readers engaged and thinking.
Handled sensitive topics very carefully.
Loved by kids and parents alike.

Key Lessons

Example Lesson: Courage in the face of uncertainty
Explanation: In 'Angels Don't Know Karate,' the characters often face situations where they must act bravely, even without knowing all the answers.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to face new challenges courageously, understanding that it's okay to feel unsure at times.
Example Lesson: Importance of helping others
Explanation: The story promotes kindness through characters who go out of their way to assist others in need.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to be proactive in helping peers and family members, fostering a supportive community.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: The characters achieve their goals by working together, demonstrating that collaboration can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to value collaborative efforts and teamwork in school projects and play.
Example Lesson: Self-defense and personal safety
Explanation: The book includes themes of learning self-defense techniques responsibly.
Real-World Application: Educates children on the importance of understanding personal safety and encourages interest in learning basic self-defense in an age-appropriate manner.