Diggory and the Boa Conductor (Young Hippo Magic)
Young Hippo Series
What’s inside...
This is a collection of three stories about Diggory, an ordinary boy who encounters extraordinary events. In these stories, Diggory experiences adventures with the incredible Boa Conductor, a desk that's more than it seems, and unusual furry babysitters. The recurring theme suggests a hint of magic in Diggory's life.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made Diggory brave enough to help the animals on the train?
How do you think the other animals felt when Diggory helped them?
If you were Diggory, which magical animal would you like to meet and why?
What would you do if you were the conductor of a magical train?
How do you think the story would change if Diggory had not helped the animals?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Diggory’s shoes, making decisions and interacting with magical creatures.
Discuss the qualities of a good leader and friend, relating them to Diggory's actions in the story.
Ask your child to think about how helping others can impact their own experiences, using examples from the book.
Invite your child to describe their favorite part of the book and explain why it stood out to them.
Utilize the book’s magical elements to foster creativity, asking your child to invent their own magical creature or scenario.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cooperation and Teamwork
Explanation: In the story, Diggory and the magical creatures must work together to solve problems and navigate the magical world. This collaboration is key to the success of their adventures.
Real-World Application: Children can apply the value of teamwork in school projects, sports, or family activities, learning that cooperation can lead to accomplishing goals more effectively.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The magical elements in the book, such as the Boa Conductor, inspire imaginative thinking as Diggory explores new worlds. Creativity is celebrated as a tool for problem-solving and entertainment.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to use their imagination in play, storytelling, or art, allowing them to explore new ideas and express themselves uniquely.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Diggory is tasked with important duties in the magical world, teaching him to take responsibility for his actions and the world around him.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of being responsible in their everyday duties, such as homework, chores, and in their interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: Throughout their journey, Diggory and his friends face many challenges that require bravery to overcome the obstacles and uncertainties in the magical world.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of facing fears and the importance of courage in trying new things or standing up for what is right in real-life situations.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: As Diggory interacts with various characters, the importance of building and maintaining friendships is a recurring theme, showing how friends can provide support and companionship.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the significance of nurturing friendships, being a good friend, and the positive impacts of social interactions.