Boyface and the Uncertain Ponies
#3 in Boyface Series
on Goodreads (7)
What’s inside...
In 'Uncertain Ponies', the third book in the laugh-out-loud series by James Campbell, the town of Stoddenage-On-Sea is facing an unusual problem. Ponies are mysteriously turning into zebras, and suspicion falls on the Antelope family's stripemongering shop. It is believed that the Quantum Chromatic Disruption Machine could be malfunctioning. Boyface Antelope and his friend Clootie Whanger must work together to fix the machine and reverse the transformation before all the town's ponies are affected.
Discussion points
How do you think Boyface felt when he encountered the Uncertain Ponies?
What would you do if you were in Boyface's situation with the ponies?
What do you think makes the ponies uncertain, and how can they be helped?
Why is it important to help others, like Boyface helps the ponies?
What did you learn from Boyface’s adventures that you can apply in your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Boyface’s shoes, fostering empathy and understanding.
Use open-ended questions to allow your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story.
Discuss the concept of uncertainty and how it relates to everyday situations your child might encounter.
Highlight themes of kindness and help, asking your child how they can implement these lessons in their interactions.
Reinforce the book’s messages by drawing parallels to real-life scenarios, enhancing comprehension and retention.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Uniqueness
Explanation: Boyface Antelope, the quirky protagonist, constantly encounters unique ponies and other unusual situations, demonstrating the value of embracing differences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and celebrate differences in others, fostering inclusivity and understanding from a young age.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Boyface creatively navigates the challenges presented by the uncertain ponies, showing the importance of thinking outside the box.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to develop critical thinking skills and resilience when faced with challenges in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The care and decisions Boyface has to make in managing the uncertain ponies showcases the importance of responsibility.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking charge of their tasks and duties at home or in school, learning about accountability.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Throughout the book, Boyface has to adjust to numerous unexpected events, teaching adaptability.
Real-World Application: This prepares children to be flexible and adaptable in a constantly changing world, helping them to successfully navigate various situations.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Faced with uncertainties, Boyface consistently shows courage in his decisions and actions.
Real-World Application: This lesson inspires children to face fears and uncertainties with bravery, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones.