Bolivar
Bolivar Series
on Goodreads (6)
What’s inside...
Sybil's next door neighbor, Bolivar, is a dinosaur, but no one in the bustling streets of New York City seems to notice his unusual features. When a parking ticket leads Bolivar on an adventure from City Hall to the Natural History Museum, he must decide whether to continue living unnoticed or reveal his true identity to the city.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about Bolivar's adventures? How would you feel if you were in his place?
Bolivar seems to blend into the city even though he's a dinosaur. Why do you think no one notices him?
How do the people in the book treat Bolivar and why?
What does Bolivar's journey teach us about friendship and bravery?
If you could ask Bolivar one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Bolivar’s shoes, discussing how they might feel exploring a big city alone.
Discuss the various characters' reactions to Bolivar in the story, prompting your child to think about how they perceive others who are different.
Ask your child what they would do if they met Bolivar, fostering a connection between the story and your child's world.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene from the book or to create an alternative ending, deepening their connection and understanding of the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: In 'Bolivar,' the protagonist faces numerous challenges but continues to push forward and adapt to new situations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of not giving up in the face of difficulties, whether it's completing a difficult school project or resolving conflicts with friends.
Example Lesson: Empathy and kindness
Explanation: The story highlights Bolivar's interactions with others where he consistently treats them with kindness and considers their feelings.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be considerate and empathetic towards their peers, fostering a supportive and inclusive community.
Example Lesson: Importance of adventure and exploration
Explanation: Bolivar embarks on various adventures, encouraging curiosity and a desire to learn more about the world around him.
Real-World Application: Children are motivated to explore their own environments, ask questions, and learn from their experiences outside the classroom.
Example Lesson: Understanding and embracing differences
Explanation: Bolivar meets characters from different backgrounds throughout his journey, learning to appreciate and embrace their differences.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the value of diversity and promote acceptance in their daily interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, Bolivar encounters problems that he must solve using his wit and the resources available to him.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of thinking creatively and using critical thinking skills to navigate challenges they encounter in their own lives.