Marcel's Masterpiece
on Goodreads (160)
What’s inside...
This is the story of Marcel Duchamp and how the Dada art movement changed the way people thought about what art could be, and what could be art. From drawing a moustache on the Mona Lisa to attaching a bicycle wheel to a stool, Duchamp's work challenged long-held notions of art and how it should be made. People were amused, confused, and sometimes offended, and that was just the way Marcel Duchamp liked it. With Marcel's Masterpiece, Jeff Mack explores Duchamp's most famous provocation, and asks readers to ponder the ideas that help us see the world in new and interesting ways.
Discussion points
What do you think Marcel learned about himself by the end of the story?
How did Marcel's friends help him solve his problem?
Why is it important to believe in yourself, just like Marcel did?
In what ways do you think Marcel changed from the beginning of the book to the end?
What would you have done if you were in Marcel's shoes?
Tip: Role play these questions
Allow your child to express their thoughts freely, validating their feelings and perspectives.
Connect Marcel’s experiences to your child’s life by discussing similar challenges they have faced or could face.
Prompt deeper thinking by asking your child how they would act differently than Marcel and why.
Encourage your child to think creatively by asking them to come up with alternative solutions to Marcel’s challenges.
Share your own experiences related to the book’s themes to foster a more personal connection and discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and Self-expression
Explanation: Marcel, the main character, uses his imagination to turn everyday objects into art, demonstrating the power of creativity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to express themselves through various forms of art, such as drawing, painting, or building with blocks, enhancing their creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Persistence and Resilience
Explanation: Throughout the book, Marcel faces challenges but continues to create and share his artwork, showing perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by continuing to work on their tasks or hobbies, even when they face difficulties, helping to build their resilience in overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Sharing and Collaboration
Explanation: Marcel shares his creations with his friends, leading to collaborative projects that bring the community together.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of sharing their own talents and working together with others, which can foster a sense of community and improve social skills.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Art
Explanation: The story showcases various art forms and the joy they bring to people, emphasizing the importance of art in our lives.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and appreciate different forms of art, be it in a museum, a book, or on the streets, promoting cultural awareness and aesthetic appreciation.
Example Lesson: Confidence in One’s Abilities
Explanation: Marcel gains confidence as he receives positive feedback from his peers about his art, illustrating the growth in self-esteem.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to take pride in their achievements, however small, which can boost their self-confidence and encourage them to take on new challenges.