Malcolm Under the Stars
#2 in Malcolm at Midnight Series
What’s inside...
Now that Snip the cat is gone (but hardly forgotten), the classroom animals of the Midnight Academy are ready for things to get back to normal at the McKenna School. After all, protecting nutters (students) and lankies (teachers) is an around-the-clock job! When a rare coin and a strange code are uncovered in the school, Malcolm and the Academy have another mystery on their paws. To find answers, Malcolm ventures into the dangerous outside world full of shady characters, new friends, and old enemies. Can Malcolm solve the mystery and save the school before it’s too late? Join Malcolm and company as they take on their most challenging assignment yet. Illustrated with black-and-white line drawings by Brian Lies, author and illustrator of the New York Times bestsellers Bats at the Beach, Bats at the Library, and Bats at the Ballgame, this engaging novel will have readers rooting for Malcolm as they try to solve the mystery alongside him.
Discussion points
How do you think Malcolm felt when he ventured out from the classroom for his night-time adventure?
What are some of the challenges Malcolm faced, and how did he overcome them?
Can you think of a time when you tried something new like Malcolm did? What was that like?
Why do you think teamwork was important in Malcolm's adventure?
What did Malcolm learn during his journey under the stars?
Tip: Role play these questions
Set a comfortable reading spot to create a relaxed environment for the discussion.
Show genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings about the story to encourage open sharing.
Relate the story to your child’s personal experiences to make the conversation more relatable and engaging.
Praise your child’s insights and contributions to reinforce their confidence in expressing ideas.
Encourage creative thinking by asking what they would have done if they were in Malcolm's place.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing the unknown
Explanation: Malcolm, the rat protagonist, ventures out from his comfortable school setting to the outdoors, facing challenges and unknown territories bravely.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace new experiences and face their fears, whether it's trying out a new activity or adjusting to a new school environment.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork and friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, Malcolm collaborates with other animals to navigate the night and solve problems, highlighting how teamwork can make challenging tasks easier.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to work cooperatively in group settings, understanding that everyone has a unique strength to contribute to collective goals.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity and learning
Explanation: Malcolm's night-time adventures lead him to discover and learn about various nocturnal creatures and their habits.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be inquisitive and explore new topics, fostering a love for learning and discovery, whether through reading, exploring nature, or asking questions in class.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and decision-making
Explanation: Malcolm often has to make decisions that affect not only him but his new friends as well. He learns to consider the consequences of his actions carefully.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to think about how their decisions impact others around them, promoting a sense of responsibility and empathy.