How I Became a Pirate
#1 of 2 in How I Became A Pirate Series
What’s inside...
In 'How I Became a Pirate' by Melinda Long, Jeremy Jacob, a young boy, is building a sandcastle when Captain Braid Beard and his pirate crew invite him to join them. Excited for adventure, Jeremy learns pirate life essentials like burying treasure and singing sea shanties. However, he misses bedtime stories and goodnight kisses, realizing the downsides of pirate life. Amidst a storm, Jeremy's writing skills help the pirates find their treasure, and he convinces them to take him home. Back with his family, Jeremy values his adventure but cherishes his home comforts even more.
Discussion points
What would you do if you met a pirate like the ones in the story?
How did the main character feel when he joined the pirates? Can you think of a time when you felt the same way?
What are some rules that the pirates had? Why are rules important?
If you could create your own pirate adventure, what would it look like?
What does friendship mean in the story, and how does it compare to your friendships?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the world of the book, asking them what role they would play.
Discuss the moral aspects of the story, such as right and wrong, and personal values versus those of the pirates.
Connect the story to real life by discussing the importance of teamwork and cooperation, as displayed by the pirate crew.
Use expressive reading to make the story come alive, changing your voice for different characters to maintain engagement.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book to further solidify their understanding and connection to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding leadership and teamwork
Explanation: Throughout 'How I Became a Pirate,' the protagonist learns about the responsibilities and roles within a pirate crew, highlighting the importance of working together and taking initiative.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these concepts in group projects or team sports where cooperating with others towards a common goal is essential.
Example Lesson: Learning about problem-solving
Explanation: The young character faces several challenges on his pirate adventure, which require him to think critically and make decisions that affect the outcome of the story.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think independently and work through their own problems, be it at school or in social situations.
Example Lesson: Valuing creativity and imagination
Explanation: The story's adventurous spirit nurtures imagination as the main character dreams up high seas adventures, emphasizing the power of creativity.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to engage in creative play, which can lead to enhanced problem-solving skills and innovative thinking in real life.
Example Lesson: Understanding consequences
Explanation: As the story progresses, the protagonist learns that certain choices lead to specific outcomes, teaching readers about foreseeing consequences of their actions.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the impact of their choices and encourages responsible decision-making.
Example Lesson: Appreciating family and home
Explanation: By the end of his journey, the protagonist realizes the importance of his family and the security that his normal life provides, which is a pivotal moment in the book.
Real-World Application: Reinforces the significance of family bonds and the comfort of home, encouraging children to value their own family environment.