Colin Goes Bush
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
Here we revisit the appealing Colin Kennedy (ecowarrior) and his zany family. Colin first appeared in Recycled. The story features Dad, the lawn mowing business owner, Mum, the real estate agent, and Allie, the beauty-conscious teenager. In this tale, Colin is involved with the local 'Green Group' and concurrently dealing with growing concerns about his parents' relationship which seems to be heading towards disaster. Colin Goes Bush captivates readers with McKay's trademark humor, quick character sketches, and astute observations of family dynamics. The story progresses at a rapid pace with a seemingly effortless flow, drawing readers into the world of Green protests and Colin's confusion about global workings. The book, intended for ages 8-12, offers a humorous and engaging read with each chapter beginning with a 'tree fact'.
Age
7-12
Length
157 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Colin
Discussion points
What do you think Colin felt when he first went into the bush?
How do you think the bush is different from our home?
What would you have done if you were Colin on his adventure?
What did Colin learn from his adventure in the bush?
How did the animals in the story help Colin? What can we learn from them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to convey the emotions and atmosphere of the bush setting.
Pause after exciting moments in the story to ask your child how they think Colin felt or what they would have done in his place.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story by asking them to describe what they see, hear, or feel in the bush.
Relate elements of the book to your child's experiences, such as exploring a new place or meeting new friends, to make the themes more personal and relatable.
After reading, ask your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene or character to further discuss the story's themes and their understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: Colin embarks on a journey through the wilderness, learning to appreciate and care for the environment.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to engage in activities like planting trees and recycling, fostering a sense of responsibility towards the Earth.
Example Lesson: The importance of curiosity
Explanation: The character's adventurous spirit leads him to explore new environments, sparking his curiosity about the natural world.
Real-World Application: Kids can be inspired to ask questions and explore new topics in school or during family outings, enhancing their learning experiences.
Example Lesson: Building resilience
Explanation: Throughout his adventures, Colin faces challenges that he overcomes, which builds his resilience and problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children can be taught to face difficulties in school or in social settings with a positive attitude, helping them develop coping mechanisms for obstacles in life.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: During his journey, Colin meets new friends who help and support him, underscoring the importance of friendships.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to cultivate and value friendships, learning to cooperate and empathize with peers.