Masterpiece
#1 of 5 in The Masterpiece Adventures Series
What’s inside...
Masterpiece is a children's novel that follows the story of an unlikely friendship between a beetle named Marvin and a boy named James. When Marvin creates an intricate pen-and-ink drawing, James claims it as his own, leading to a series of adventures involving art theft, forgery, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Character compass
James Pompaday
Denny Pompaday
Marvin
Christina
Discussion points
What do you think made Marvin and James become such good friends despite being so different?
How do you think Marvin felt when he was creating his art?
What part of the story surprised you the most and why?
If you were Marvin, would you have made the same decisions he did? Why or why not?
How do the themes of friendship and bravery show up in different parts of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, emphasizing that all opinions are valid.
Connect the themes of the book to your child’s own life by discussing similar situations where they had to make tough decisions or form unexpected friendships.
Ask your child to draw a scene from the book, focusing on how they envision the characters and settings.
Discuss the moral dilemmas presented in the book and what your child would do in those situations.
Highlight the importance of empathy by discussing how the characters might have felt during key events in the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and collaboration
Explanation: In 'Masterpiece', Marvin the beetle and James form a unique friendship that helps them navigate various challenges. Their teamwork leads them to solve a mystery that even adults find daunting.
Real-World Application: Children learn that working together with others, regardless of differences, can help solve problems and accomplish goals that might seem impossible alone.
Example Lesson: Developing an appreciation for art
Explanation: Throughout the story, art plays a central role in bringing characters together and setting the stage for the mystery. This exposure helps instill a love and appreciation for art from a young age.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to visit museums, create their own art, and look at the world around them through a more aesthetic and appreciative lens.
Example Lesson: Integrity and honesty
Explanation: Marvin faces moral dilemmas, including the temptation to take credit for art he didn’t create. He learns and demonstrates the value of honesty.
Real-World Application: This lesson emphasizes the importance of being truthful in one's actions and words, a key aspect of character development in children.
Example Lesson: Courage and bravery
Explanation: The characters in 'Masterpiece' often venture into unknown territories and stand up to daunting situations, showing bravery.
Real-World Application: Such narratives can inspire children to face their own fears and challenges, understanding that bravery is not the absence of fear but acting in spite of it.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The book features a series of challenges and puzzles that Marvin and James must solve. This not only entertains but educates children on how to approach and solve problems.
Real-World Application: Children can apply problem-solving skills learned from the book to academic challenges and personal situations, enhancing their critical thinking abilities.