Gnome-a-geddon
What’s inside...
Buck discovers that his favorite book series, The Triumphant Gnome Syndicate, might be less fictional than he thought when the author disappears and his sister vanishes into a magical world. Teaming up with his best friend Lizzie, Buck embarks on an adventure with his favorite characters to find the Troll Vanquishing Mace and save his sister. Along the way, Buck learns that the line between heroes and villains is blurry, and real life doesn't work like a story.
Age
8-12
Length
304 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Buck and his sister to jump into the gnome universe?
How do you think the book would have ended if Buck and Lizzie hadn’t worked together?
What qualities do Buck and Lizzie have that helped them during their adventure?
How do you feel about the way the gnomes were portrayed in the story?
If you could create your own gnome character, what special traits or abilities would they have?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to reflect on the teamwork aspect shown by Buck and Lizzie, and relate it to their real-life interactions.
Discuss the concept of courage in the book, especially in unfamiliar situations, and ask your child about a time they felt brave.
Invite your child to imagine their own fantasy world, asking what creatures or characters would live there and why.
Use the portrayal of gnomes to chat about perceptions and misconceptions of people or things that are different from us.
After reading, consider crafting a simple art project where your child develops their version of a gnome, encouraging creativity and personal expression.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: In 'Gnome-a-geddon', the characters must work together to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles, highlighting the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning how to cooperate and value each other’s strengths.
Example Lesson: Courage and Facing Fears
Explanation: The protagonist shows bravery in confronting challenges within the gnome world, teaching children the value of facing fears.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to tackle new or intimidating tasks, such as trying out for a school play or speaking up in class.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The imaginative setting and plot inspire creativity, as characters create solutions in fantastical scenarios.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to use their imagination in creative writing, arts, or problem solving, enhancing their ability to think outside the box.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Characters in the book learn to take responsibility for their actions and their roles in the group, promoting personal growth.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of accountability, whether it’s doing homework, chores, or admitting when they’re wrong.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Throughout 'Gnome-a-geddon', characters face setbacks and learn to persevere, thereby embodying resilience.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to bounce back from their own setbacks, be it a low grade at school or a lost game, fostering a resilient mindset.