Manuelo, The Playing Mantis
What’s inside...
A praying mantis named Manuelo longs to make music but doesn't know how to play an instrument. During the outdoor concerts, his friend, a spider named Debby Webster, notices his desperation and teaches him how to make a cello. With his newfound skill, Manuelo is able to fulfill his musical destiny and play his part in the concerts he loves.
Age
3-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Manuelo The Mantis
Discussion points
What do you think Manuelo felt when he couldn’t find the right materials to make music? Can you share a time when you faced a similar challenge?
How did Manuelo’s friends help him in his quest for music? Why is it important to have friends support our dreams?
What can we learn from Manuelo about perseverance and creativity?
How did you feel when Manuelo finally created his own musical instrument?
If you could create an instrument like Manuelo, what would it look like and what sounds would it make?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions to explore your child’s thoughts and feelings about the story. Encourage your child to connect the story to their own experiences, fostering deeper empathy and understanding. Highlight the importance of creativity, problem-solving, and the value of persistence as demonstrated by Manuelo. Discuss the role of friendship and community support in achieving personal goals.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance in realizing one’s dreams
Explanation: Manuelo, the praying mantis struggles to make his own musical instrument. Despite initial failures, he remains determined and resourceful, eventually succeeding.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of persistence and determination in overcoming obstacles to achieve their goals, fostering resilience in real-life challenges.
Example Lesson: Creativity and resourcefulness
Explanation: Throughout the book, Manuelo uses available materials creatively to craft his musical instrument. This shows his ability to think innovatively with limited resources.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think creatively in solving problems and to use the resources they have in new and inventive ways, enhancing their problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of music and arts
Explanation: Manuelo’s journey is centered around his passion for music and crafting the perfect instrument, highlighting the importance and joy of artistic pursuits.
Real-World Application: It inspires children to explore their own interests in music and arts, potentially sparking a lifelong appreciation and hobby.
Example Lesson: Friendship and collaboration
Explanation: Manuelo turns to his friends for advice and assistance when he faces difficulty in building his instrument, showing the importance of seeking help and working together.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of friendship, teamwork, and relying on others for support and guidance in accomplishing difficult tasks.
Example Lesson: Patience in achieving goals
Explanation: Manuelo does not achieve his goal immediately; it takes time and several attempts. This teaches the importance of being patient while working towards long-term goals.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that not all objectives are immediately attainable and that patience is crucial in achieving lasting results.