Extravaganza at the Plaza (Raccoon River Kids Adventures, 2)
Raccoon River Kids Adventures Series
What’s inside...
Eight-year-old Hannah and the kids of Raccoon River embark on a project to save their town's old abandoned Plaza Theater. Despite the spooky and dilapidated interior, the children are determined to raise $2,500 to donate special equipment and restore the theater. With only three weeks left before opening night and not close to reaching their goal, they need a big break. Through determination, cooperation, and a bit of luck, they strive to make a real difference in their community. This story, illustrated by Mark Tuchman, is the first sequel to BLUEBERRY BONANZA in the RACCOON RIVER KIDS ADVENTURES series.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
88 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the adventure at the Plaza and why?
How did the characters’ teamwork help solve their problems?
If you could be friends with one of the characters, who would it be and what would you do together?
What do you think is the most important lesson the Raccoon River Kids learned?
How would you have handled the situation differently if you were in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the story beyond its pages by asking them to relate to the characters or situations. This can enhance their empathy and understanding of teamwork. Use expressive questions that require more than a yes or no answer to stimulate deeper conversation. Lastly, share your own thoughts about the story's themes to foster a two-way dialogue that makes reading a shared, enjoyable learning experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'Extravaganza at the Plaza,' the Raccoon River Kids come together to organize a local fair. Throughout the story, they solve problems and make decisions collectively, showcasing effective teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in their daily interactions, learning to collaborate with peers during school projects or in sports, valuing each member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Creativity and problem-solving
Explanation: The young characters in the book encounter various challenges while planning the fair, but they use creative solutions to overcome these obstacles, demonstrating resilience and ingenuity.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think outside the box and use creativity to solve problems, whether it's in their homework, during playtime, or in other aspects of life.
Example Lesson: Community involvement
Explanation: The story highlights the kids' engagement with their local community as they plan the fair, showing the importance of getting involved and making a positive impact.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of participating in community activities, understanding that their actions can contribute to communal well-being and improvement.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Each member of the Raccoon River Kids takes on specific responsibilities to ensure the success of the event, learning about accountability and duty.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of fulfilling their commitments and responsibilities, such as completing homework on time or helping out at home.