Broomstick Removals (Young Hippo Magic)
#2 in Young Hippo Magic Series
on Goodreads (2)
What’s inside...
Mabel and Ethel are not happy witches. Someone has stolen their precious broomsticks, now they can't run Broomstick Services, their take-away delivery business. This calls for drastic action. So Mabel and Ethel ask Maud, their sister, for help. But Maud's a respectable, married witch now, she doesn't do magic these days. Or does she? Hang on a minute, she's digging out the old spell book. Uh-oh! Those broomstick thieves had better watch out!
Discussion points
How do you think Petra felt when she discovered the broomstick? What would you do if you found one?
What are some ways the characters in the book helped each other? Can you think of a time when you helped someone or someone helped you?
Why is it important to have courage and be adventurous like Petra and Grandad?
What do you think the broomsticks symbolize in the story? Can objects in real life also have special meanings?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in our hometown?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to place themselves in the characters' shoes, asking how they would react in similar magical situations.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and helping others, drawing parallels to the child's personal experiences.
Highlight themes of bravery and adventure, asking your child about times when they have felt brave.
Explore the symbolism in the story, asking your child if they have objects that are special to them and why.
Use the book's setting to spark a conversation about different places and how stories might change based on location.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: In 'Broomstick Removals', the characters work together to solve magical problems, demonstrating the power of collective effort.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of cooperating with others to achieve common goals, which is applicable in school projects and family activities.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: The book presents various challenges that the characters must overcome using their wit and resources, encouraging critical thinking.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to think creatively and persistently when faced with obstacles, skills beneficial in academic and social settings.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Characters in the story are tasked with important duties that affect the magical world, highlighting the significance of responsibility.
Real-World Application: Kids learn that their actions have consequences and that being responsible is key to maintaining trust and reliability in real-life situations.
Example Lesson: Respect for Diversity
Explanation: The magical world in 'Broomstick Removals' includes a variety of creatures and characters, showcasing the value of respecting differences.
Real-World Application: This helps children embrace diversity and learn to respect people from all walks of life, fostering a more inclusive attitude.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: When faced with daunting tasks, the characters show bravery, inspiring readers to face their fears.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to tackle new challenges fearlessly, whether it's trying out for a sports team, speaking in public, or standing up for what they believe in.