Bo and the Merbaby: A Branches Book (Unicorn Diaries #5) (5)
#5 of 11 in Unicorn Diaries Series
on Goodreads (381)
What’s inside...
Bo helps a mermaid in this magical early chapter book from the USA Today bestselling author of Owl Diaries! Pick a book. Grow a Reader! This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line, Branches, aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow! In the fifth book of USA Today bestselling author Rebecca Elliott's Unicorn Diaries series, unicorn Bo and friends set out to help a merbaby, who was born unable to swim on her own. On their journey to find a legendary demigod called The Golden Fish they meet a friendly werewolf and learn some cool new water tricks! And in the end, they learn that merbaby Flo is perfect just the way she is. With full-color artwork throughout and plenty of smiles, your young reader won't be able to put this book down!
Discussion points
How do you think Bo felt when she met the Merbaby? What would you do if you met a new creature?
Why is it important to help others, like Bo helped the Merbaby?
What can we learn from the differences between the characters in the story?
How did the characters work together to solve problems? Can you think of a time when you worked with someone else to solve a problem?
What would you have done differently if you were in Bo’s situation?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, relating Bo’s adventures to their own experiences.
Discuss the importance of empathy and kindness, drawing parallels between the book’s themes and real-life situations.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or adventures for Bo and the Merbaby, fostering creative thinking.
Highlight the teamwork aspect of the story, prompting your child to think about times they've collaborated with others.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: In 'Bo and the Merbaby,' Bo's encounter with a lost merbaby exemplifies the values of empathy and compassion. Bo goes out of their way to help the merbaby find its way back home, showcasing understanding and concern for others' feelings and situations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize emotions in others and respond with kindness and care, whether it’s helping a classmate who is lost or comforting a friend who is upset.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Throughout the story, Bo demonstrates responsibility by taking care of the merbaby and ensuring its safety. This portrayal serves as a model for young readers on the importance of being dependable and taking responsibility for others.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by taking on small duties at home or in school, such as looking after a pet or managing their own belongings, fostering a sense of accountability.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Bo faces and overcomes various challenges while trying to help the merbaby. These scenarios highlight critical thinking and effective problem-solving strategies.
Real-World Application: Children can use similar problem-solving skills in their daily interactions and challenges, learning to think critically and innovate solutions in various settings, from school projects to resolving conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Bo collaborates with friends and other creatures to help the merbaby. This cooperation underlines the importance of teamwork and how working together can achieve more than working alone.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to cooperate and work collaboratively in group settings like team sports, school group projects, or during playtime with friends.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: The story’s setting and interactions with various creatures teach respect and appreciation for the environment and its inhabitants.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be mindful of their environment, practicing conservation and respectful interaction with nature and animals during outdoor activities or family trips to natural reserves.