Makeda Makes a Birthday Treat
#1 in Makeda Makes Series
What’s inside...
The first title in a delightful new Level 2 I Can Read! series from acclaimed author Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich and illustrator Lydia Mba, starring Makeda, an exuberant 7-year-old "maker" and problem solver who loves to create. Perfect for readers who love Rosie Revere, Engineer, and Reina Ramos Works It Out.
It's Makeda's birthday! To celebrate, she is excited to make her marvelous coconut drops to share with the class.
But everyone else brings cupcakes for their birthdays. Will her classmates like her special treat?
Makeda Makes a Birthday Treat is a Level Two I Can Read book, geared for kids who read on their own but still need a little help. Whether shared at home or in a classroom, the engaging stories, longer sentences, and language play of Level Two books are proven to help kids take their next steps toward reading success.
Discussion points
How do you think Makeda felt when she was making the birthday treat? Can you remember a time you felt the same while doing something special for someone?
What are some ways Makeda shows kindness in the story? How can we show kindness to our friends and family?
Why is it important to help others, like Makeda does in the book?
What would you have done differently if you were in Makeda's place?
If you could create a special treat for someone's birthday, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book’s themes, such as kindness and helpfulness. Use open-ended questions that prompt deeper thinking and personal connections. Share your own experiences related to the themes in the story to model thoughtful reflection and discussion. Praise your child for their insights and encourage them to think of ways they can incorporate the book’s lessons into their daily life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Makeda takes on the task of making a birthday treat, showing dedication and commitment to completing her project.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by taking charge of small projects at home, such as tidying up their room or caring for a pet.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: The story highlights Makeda's creative process in baking, encouraging children to be imaginative and innovative.
Real-World Application: Kids can engage in creative activities like drawing, building with blocks, or inventing simple recipes to express their imagination.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Makeda encounters challenges in her baking process and figures out solutions, which illustrates effective problem solving.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to address and solve everyday problems they face, whether in schoolwork or in social situations.
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: Makeda experiences happiness in making something special for someone else, teaching the value of selflessness and giving.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to do acts of kindness, such as making gifts or helping others without expecting anything in return.