Maximilian & the Bingo Rematch (Max's Lucha Libre Adventures #2)
#2 of 4 in Max'S Lucha Libre Adventures Series
What’s inside...
Maximilian & the Bingo Rematch is the sequel to Maximilian & the Mystery of the Guardian Angel, an honor book for the Pura Belpre Award. Xavier Garza rules the ring when it comes to writing and illustrating action-packed, high-interest books filled with crazy comic-book art and set in the emotionally charged world of sixth grade.In Maximilian & the Mystery of the Guardian Angel, Max tumbles over the railing at a lucha match in San Antonio and makes a connection to the world of Mexican wrestling that will ultimately link him to the greatest hero of all time: the Guardian Angel. He also falls in love with the beautiful Cecilia Cantú. In Maximilian & the Bingo Rematch, suddenly everybody seems to be fighting: a couple of cranky tìas who, like lucha libre rudos, will stop at nothing to triumph in the church's loterìa game; his masked uncles going for the tag-team title of the world; and a green-eyed vixen named Paloma who challenges his love for Cecilia. Will good triumph over evil? Max sure hopes so!Winner of the NACCS-Tejas Foco Young Adult Fiction Book Award and the Texas Institute of Letters H-E-B Award for Best Children's Book. 2014-15 Tejas Star Reading List Selection. Xavier Garza was born in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. He is an enthusiastic author, artist, teacher, and storyteller whose work is a lively documentation of the dreams, superstitions, and heroes in the bigger-than-life world of south Texas. Garza has exhibited his art and performed his stories in venues throughout Texas, Arizona, and the state of Washington. He lives with his wife and son in San Antonio, Texas.
Discussion points
Why do you think Maximilian was so determined to win the bingo rematch? What does this tell us about his character?
How do the interactions between Maximilian and his family help to shape the story? Can you relate to any of these family dynamics?
Maximilian learns valuable lessons throughout his adventures. What are some lessons you learned from this book?
How does the setting in 'Maximilian & the Bingo Rematch' enhance the storyline? What unique aspects does the lucha libre culture bring to the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to reflect on Maximilian's perseverance and relate it to their own experiences with challenges and competitions.
Discuss the family dynamics in the book, highlighting how communication and support play vital roles in family relationships.
Ask your child about the lessons Maximilian learns and how they can apply these lessons in their own life.
Explore the cultural elements of lucha libre together, perhaps even watching some lucha libre matches or reading about its history to deepen the contextual understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Maximilian demonstrates perseverance as he trains and prepares for the bingo rematch despite the challenges he faces.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of persisting with their goals whether it be in academics, sports, or personal projects, even when obstacles appear.
Example Lesson: Integrity
Explanation: Max faces moral dilemmas but chooses to do the right thing, showing that integrity is crucial even in tough situations.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of honesty and ethical behavior in their daily interactions with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Respect for others
Explanation: The story shows the importance of respecting others’ feelings and properties, as Max learns to treat his opponents and friends with consideration.
Real-World Application: Children can understand the impact of their actions on others and learn to foster positive relationships through mutual respect.
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation
Explanation: The book incorporates elements of Mexican culture and Lucha Libre, encouraging an appreciation for diverse traditions and practices.
Real-World Application: Kids are prompted to explore and respect different cultural backgrounds and practices, enriching their world view and social empathy.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Collaboration is highlighted when Max and his friends work together during the bingo game, showing that teamwork often leads to success.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be mirrored in group activities at school or in sports, teaching children the importance of cooperating and valuing each team member’s contribution.