Knights and Bikes
#1 in Knights and Bikes Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (155)
What’s inside...
Welcome to the sleepy island of Penfurzy, where nothing exciting ever really happens. OR DOES IT? Adventure awaits Demelza and her new best friend, Nessa, as they explore the island and uncover the mysteries of the Penfurzy Knights. With a honking pet goose sidekick, quirky islanders and a legendary treasure to find, it's up to Nessa and Demelza to ride their bikes, solve the puzzles before them, and face down danger with frisbees, water-balloons, feathers .... and a toilet plunger. THEIR FRIENDSHIP WILL WARM YOUR HEART. THEIR BRAVERY WILL MAKE THEM LEGENDS.
Character compass
Demelza
Nessa
Demelza'S Dad
Discussion points
What qualities make Nessa and Demelza brave and unique? How can you apply those qualities to your own adventures?
How does the friendship between the characters help them face their challenges? Can you think of a time when a friend helped you overcome something difficult?
What do you think the treasure in the story symbolizes? Why do you think treasures are often featured in adventure tales?
How do the setting and environment affect the adventures in the story? What kind of setting would you choose for your own adventure?
What lessons did you learn from the challenges faced by the characters? How do these lessons apply to real-life situations?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the setting of the story by asking them what they would do in similar situations.
Foster empathy by discussing characters’ emotions and motivations throughout the story. Ask your child how they would feel if they were in the characters' shoes.
Promote critical thinking by asking your child what they would do differently if they were a character in the book, and explore alternative outcomes together.
Enhance understanding of the themes by connecting them to real-life events or personal experiences, making abstract ideas more tangible for the child.
Create a fun post-reading activity like drawing their favorite scene or character, which can lead to further discussion about the story's details and themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: In 'Knights and Bikes,' the protagonists, Nessa and Demelza, demonstrate the power of collaboration as they navigate their adventures on Penfurzy Island. Their success in overcoming obstacles is largely due to their ability to work together and support each other.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value teamwork in their interactions with peers, understanding that cooperation can lead to achieving goals and solving problems more effectively in school projects or sports.
Example Lesson: Courage and facing fears
Explanation: Throughout the story, both main characters confront various fears. Their bravery in facing these fears not only contributes to their personal growth but also helps them advance in their quest.
Real-World Application: This provides a framework for children to manage their own fears, whether it's trying out new activities, standing up for themselves, or dealing with changes such as moving to a new school.
Example Lesson: Creative problem-solving
Explanation: Nessa and Demelza use their imaginative capabilities to navigate through challenges they encounter. Their solutions are often unconventional yet effective, showcasing the importance of creativity.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to think outside the box and use their imagination to find solutions to daily challenges, enhancing their cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: The significance of history and culture
Explanation: The game's setting on a fictional British island introduces elements of local lore and historical significance, which enriches the narrative and educates about the relevance of history and culture.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to explore and appreciate their own heritage and the diverse cultures around them, fostering a sense of curiosity and respect for history.