Big Nate: Pray for a Fire Drill
#1 in Max and the Midknights Series
on Goodreads (3,271)
What’s inside...
Sixth-grader Nate Wright has plenty to keep him busy and hoping for a distraction. Between annoying older siblings, homework in every subject, and socially awkward friends, Nate has his hands full. When a fire drill interrupts his day, Nate sees it as the perfect opportunity to shake things up a bit. Max wants to be a knight! Too bad that dream is about as likely as finding a friendly dragon. But when Max's uncle Budrick is kidnapped by the cruel King Gastley, Max has to act...and fast! Joined by a band of brave adventurers--the Midknights--Max sets out on a thrilling quest: to save Uncle Budrick and restore the realm of Byjovia to its former high spirits!
Character compass
Nate Wright
Teddy Ortiz
Francis Pope
Gina Hemphill-Toms
Mrs. Godfrey
Discussion points
How do you think Nate feels about school and why?
What do you think about Nate’s strategies for handling challenging situations at school?
Can you relate to any of the characters in the story? Who and in what ways?
What lessons do you think Nate learns throughout the book?
If you were in Nate’s shoes, how would you have handled the situations differently?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing a personal story from your own school days related to the book’s themes. This can help create a comfortable atmosphere for your child to open up. Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book, even if they differ from your views. Facilitate a discussion on the choices Nate makes and explore alternative solutions together, emphasizing the importance of thinking through consequences. Lastly, ask your child to draw or write a short scenario inspired by the book, enhancing their understanding and personal connection to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'Big Nate: Pray for a Fire Drill', Nate is often depicted handling situations that require him to be responsible, either in school or at home.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of being responsible for their actions and duties, helping them develop a sense of accountability in their everyday tasks.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, Nate encounters various challenges that he needs to solve, ranging from schoolwork to social situations.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and creatively to solve problems they encounter in school or during play.
Example Lesson: The Value of Humor
Explanation: Nate's humorous outlook and antics can turn challenging situations into more manageable and less intimidating experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to use humor as a coping mechanism to deal with their day-to-day challenges, enhancing their resilience.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: Interactions between Nate and his friends provide lessons on cooperation, understanding, and supporting each other.
Real-World Application: This can guide children on how to interact positively with peers and build strong, supportive friendships.
Example Lesson: Dealing with Disappointment
Explanation: Nate often faces disappointments, be it in school results or personal expectations. The story showcases his ways of dealing with these feelings.
Real-World Application: Children can learn how to handle disappointment and bounce back from setbacks, a crucial skill for personal development.