Matthew's Truck: Super Sturdy Picture Books
What’s inside...
All Matthew needs is a little imagination as a banister becomes a hill, the stairs become a cliff, an armchair becomes a mountain, and a fish tank becomes a lake. Until, at the end of the day, Matthew's truck pulls into its own private parking space next to Matthew's pillow. Come along for the ride as Matthew's truck navigates treacherous terrain and parks for the night in its own special spot beside Matthew's pillow. VROOM! Matthew's truck likes to go places! It ZOOMS up hills and tumbles down cliffs, again and again. Matthew's truck can splash through dangerous lakes, steer through crooked streets, and sneak under shadowy bridges. Good thing there's an excellent driver like Matthew behind the wheel!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
1-3
Length
20 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Matthew feels when he plays with his truck?
How do the different vehicles help each other in the book?
Can you imagine a new adventure for Matthew and his truck? What would it be?
What is your favorite part of the book, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Emphasize the teamwork aspect by discussing how each vehicle in the book has a special role, and relate it to real-life teamwork scenarios.
Encourage your child to talk about their feelings and experiences with their own toys, drawing parallels to Matthew’s experiences.
Use expressive intonation when reading aloud to make the story more engaging and to emphasize the emotions and actions in the book.
After reading, spend time with your child and their toys to create a similar adventure like in the book, enhancing their connection to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Matthew's Truck showcases the joys and challenges of building a project together, teaching children the importance of working as a team.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by collaborating with peers in school projects or group activities, learning to value and respect others' contributions.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The book encourages children to use their imagination as Matthew builds his own truck, demonstrating that creativity is key in problem-solving and enjoying play.
Real-World Application: Kids can engage in creative play, using toys or everyday objects to invent new games or stories, enhancing cognitive development and problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Resilience
Explanation: As Matthew faces obstacles in building his truck, the story teaches persistence and the ability to overcome challenges.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of not giving up in the face of difficulties, whether in academics, sports, or personal hobbies.
Example Lesson: Joy of Accomplishment
Explanation: The pride Matthew feels upon completing his truck shows the emotional reward of seeing a task through to the end.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to complete their own tasks and projects, feeling a sense of achievement which boosts their self-esteem.