Matt's Fantastic Electronic Compusonic
What’s inside...
Wonderful rhyme and rhythm will pull the reader into this delightful story about priorities. Matt, the star of his baseball team, receives a pocket-size electronic game for his birthday. Immediately, the fantasy game makes him forget about everything else...even his cake. For the rest of the weekend, Matt thinks of nothing but his Compusonic. It even invades his dreams. He can't pay attention in church and his lunch blurs into the game. By the time the championship game begins on Monday afternoon, Matt is hopelessly lost in the world of his Compusonic...and playing baseball rather hopelessly as a result. It takes a crunch-time decision for Matt to decide that he prefers real adventures with his friends and that it's not good to let anything come before God in his life. Uses familiar and realistic ideas stretched just a touch to be absolutely hilarious Shows kids what happens when our priorities get out of order Fabulous, original illustrations.
Discussion points
What would you invent if you had the chance, and how would it help people?
How do you think Matt felt when his invention worked? Can you think of a time you felt similar?
Why is teamwork important in achieving goals, like Matt and his friends experienced?
How do science and creativity work together in inventions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think creatively by asking them to draw or describe their own invention after reading the book.
Discuss the feelings and challenges Matt faces to help your child connect emotionally and learn how to navigate their own challenges.
Focus on the theme of collaboration by asking about a time your child worked with others to achieve something.
Explore the balance between science and creativity, and ask your child for examples of each from the book and their own experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: In the book, Matt and his friends work together to repair the Compusonic, showcasing the power of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to collaborate with peers on projects and group activities at school, fostering a spirit of cooperation and shared success.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The story revolves around troubleshooting a complex machine, which illustrates strategic thinking and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to approach challenges in their lives with a problem-solving mindset, whether in academics, sports, or interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: Creativity and innovation
Explanation: Matt's invention, the Electronic Compusonic, underscores the importance of creativity in science and technology.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to engage in creative play, STEM activities, or invent their own gadgets, enhancing their creative thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Matt takes responsibility for the malfunction and safety of his invention, learning to be accountable for his creations.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of being responsible for their actions and the things they create, promoting maturity and accountability.
Example Lesson: Learning from mistakes
Explanation: As Matt encounters setbacks with the Compusonic, he learns to view failures as stepping stones to success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this attitude towards setbacks in school or personal endeavors, helping them build resilience and a growth mindset.