Axles: The Fixer's Guide
illustrations by
What’s inside...
In 'Axles: The Fixer's Guide', young readers embark on an inventive journey with the expert fixer, Axle. Author John Wood captivates children’s imagination through engaging storytelling and vibrant illustrations, guiding them through the basics of problem-solving and creative thinking. As Axle tackles various fix-it challenges, he teaches valuable lessons on perseverance and ingenuity. Perfect for budding builders and future engineers, this book not only entertains but educates, making complex concepts accessible and fun. A must-read for encouraging practical skills and boosting confidence in young problem-solvers. Have you met the Fixer? He can build and fix anything. He has written this book (well, we wrote it for him, he doesn't have any hands) to tell you how to put your building and engineering skills to the test. Featuring simple layouts and lovely illustration, this book will teach you how to build toys and machines using simple mechanics and engineering.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-14
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Axle's most important tool is and why?
Can you describe a problem Axle faced and how he solved it?
How did Axle's friends help him in the story?
If you were Axle, what would you have done differently in the story?
How do you feel after seeing Axle fix things, and does it inspire you to fix or create something?
Tip: Role play these questions
Highlight the importance of problem-solving and ask your child how they would use their skills to solve daily challenges.
Encourage your child to discuss the qualities of a good friend, drawing examples from Axle's interactions with his peers.
Relate the story to real-life scenarios at home where fixing or creativity solves a problem, making the story relevant to your child’s experiences.
Praise your child’s responses and ideas during the discussion to build their confidence in expressing their thoughts and opinions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Axles, the main character, uses his skills and tools to fix broken items around the town, demonstrating ingenuity and resourcefulness.
Real-World Application: Children learn to approach problems creatively and understand that there are multiple solutions to a single problem, which can be applied in school projects or in resolving simple everyday issues.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Axles often works with his friends to fix larger issues, showing how collaboration can lead to successful outcomes.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of working together with others, which can be mirrored in their interactions during group activities at school or in sports.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Throughout the book, Axles takes responsibility for the town’s repairs, instilling a sense of duty and accountability.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking responsibility for their tasks, such as homework or chores, understanding their roles in family and school settings.
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness
Explanation: Axles uses available materials to create solutions, emphasizing the importance of using resources wisely.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to use what they have to solve problems, which can be as simple as reusing paper or finding new ways to entertain themselves with existing toys.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: When faced with difficult repairs, Axles persists until he fixes them, showcasing the value of determination.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to not give up easily, whether it's working on a difficult puzzle, learning a new skill, or improving in a sport.