Calvin Coconut: Hero of Hawaii
#5 in Calvin Coconut Series
on Goodreads (116)
What’s inside...
Hawaii boy Calvin Coconut has come up with the best idea ever for his sister Darci's birthday party. But a huge tropical storm hits the islands and threatens everything. It rains and rains. And rains. The river next to Calvin's house rises high. When Calvin's friend Willy falls into the raging water, Calvin grabs his skiff to save him. As Willy is swept into the bay, Calvin struggles in the wild waves. What happens next shows Calvin what heroes are made of.
Discussion points
What qualities make Calvin Coconut a hero in the story? Can you think of any heroic actions you've done?
How do the characters in the book show friendship and teamwork? Why do you think these are important?
What challenges does Calvin face and how does he overcome them? How do you deal with challenges in your life?
What part of the book was the most exciting for you? Why?
If you could ask Calvin one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the qualities that make someone a hero, linking it to their personal experiences or aspirations.
Discuss the importance of friendship and teamwork shown in the book and relate it to your child’s interactions with their peers.
Prompt your child to talk about their own challenges and relate them to Calvin's strategies for dealing with problems.
Show genuine interest in the parts of the book that excite your child, asking them to describe why those moments stood out.
Help your child formulate a question they would like to ask Calvin, enhancing their critical thinking about the character's decisions and actions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Calvin takes on the task of saving his friend's family business, showcasing his ability to handle responsibility.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by taking charge of small duties at home like caring for a pet or maintaining their room.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the story, Calvin works together with friends to solve problems, emphasizing the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This can be applied in a child’s life during group projects at school or in sports, encouraging collaborative problem-solving.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Calvin faces challenges and overcomes fears to help his friend, demonstrating bravery.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their own fears and stand up for what they believe in, whether it's trying out for a school play or standing up to bullying.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Calvin shows an understanding of his friend's predicament, which highlights his empathy.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to recognize emotions in others and respond appropriately, like comforting a classmate or helping a sibling.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: In his endeavors, Calvin uses creative thinking to come up with solutions, illustrating the power of creativity.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to use their imagination to solve problems, be it in arts, crafts, or daily challenges.