Doggedly Determined Dev
illustrations by
What’s inside...
'Doggedly Determined Dev' is a chapter book for 6-8-year-olds that follows the story of Dev, a seven-year-old Indian American boy who wants a video game console for his eighth birthday to fit in with his peers. Despite his parents wanting him to wait until he is 10, Dev discovers a contest where he can win a 'Game-Station' by writing a 500-word essay about his hero. He chooses to write about his dog, Luna. However, in his obsession with winning the game console, Dev loses Luna and is devastated. After Luna is found 48 hours later, Dev realizes that the love and companionship of his dog are more important than any material possession.
Age
5-8
Length
27 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Dev felt when he faced challenges? How do you feel when something is difficult for you?
Dev showed determination in the story. Can you think of a time when you were determined to do something? What was it and how did you succeed?
How did Dev's friends help him in his journey? Why is teamwork important?
What do you think is the most important lesson Dev learned? How can you apply that lesson in your own life?
If you could give Dev one piece of advice, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their own experiences to Dev’s challenges and achievements to deepen their connection with the story. Use open-ended questions to facilitate thoughtful responses. Validate their feelings and thoughts as they express their views, making them feel heard and understood. Discuss the importance of perseverance and teamwork highlighted in the book, connecting them to real-life scenarios your child might encounter.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Dev faces several challenges in the story but never gives up on his goal to win the school science fair.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of persisting through difficulties in their academic and personal pursuits.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Dev collaborates with his classmates to enhance their science project, demonstrating how teamwork can lead to success.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value cooperation and support among peers during group activities or team sports.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: When Dev encounters a problem with his project, he uses his creativity and critical thinking to find a solution.
Real-World Application: Children can use similar problem-solving skills to tackle homework challenges or resolve conflicts with friends.
Example Lesson: Embracing Failure as a Learning Opportunity
Explanation: Dev learns from his initial failures, which ultimately guide him towards success.
Real-World Application: Children can understand that setbacks are natural and can be used as stepping stones to achieve their goals.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: Dev’s inquisitive nature drives him to explore new scientific concepts, showcasing the joy of learning.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to seek knowledge and explore subjects that fascinate them in school or in their everyday life.