Let's Get Cracking!: A Branches Book (Kung Pow Chicken)
#1 of 5 in Kung Pow Chicken Series
on Goodreads (979)
What’s inside...
Kung Pow Chicken is the superhero everyone has been waiting for! This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line called Branches, which is aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow! In this exciting full-color series, Gordon Blue transforms into Kung Pow Chicken, an avian superhero who fights crime in the city of Fowladelphia. The first book in the series kicks off when Gordon's birdy senses lead him to a festival. Suddenly, POOF! Feathers fill the air and shivering naked chickens are everywhere. Why have all these chickens lost their feathers? Forced to wear wooly sweaters, the city itches for a hero. Kung Pow Chicken hops into his Beakmobile to save the day!
Discussion points
What do you think makes Kung Pow Chicken a superhero? Can anyone be a hero in their own way?
How did the teamwork in the story help the characters solve the problem? Why is working together important?
What are some funny parts of the book? Why did those parts make you laugh?
If you had a superpower like Kung Pow Chicken, what would it be and why?
How did the characters change from the beginning to the end of the book? What do you think caused those changes?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the qualities that make someone a hero, both in books and in real life.
Discuss the value of teamwork and ask for examples of when they had to work with others to achieve a goal.
Identify parts of the book your child found amusing and explore what makes something funny to them, enhancing their understanding of humor.
Let your child imagine and describe their own superpower, encouraging creativity and self-expression.
Talk about character development within the story and relate it to real-life scenarios where change is involved, promoting personal growth understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: The protagonist, Kung Pow Chicken, showcases bravery as he takes on missions to save his town from various dangers.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and stand up for what is right in their everyday interactions at school or in their community.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Kung Pow Chicken, along with his sidekick Egg Drop, demonstrate responsibility by taking the initiative to solve problems and help others in need.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take responsibility for their actions and to be proactive in helping at home, school, and in their neighborhoods.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, Kung Pow Chicken works closely with others, learning that teamwork can often lead to greater success than working alone.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to collaborate and value each other’s input during group activities at school or in sports.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: The characters often encounter challenges that require quick thinking and creativity to resolve.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop critical thinking skills and become resourceful in handling conflicts or challenges in their lives.
Example Lesson: Humor as a coping mechanism
Explanation: The book uses humor to deal with challenges, showing that sometimes, laughter is an effective way to face difficulties.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to use humor to relieve stress and maintain a positive outlook in tough situations.