Maximilian & the Mystery of the Guardian Angel (Max's Lucha Libre Adventures #1)
Max'S Lucha Libre Adventures Series
What’s inside...
Margarito is an eleven-year-old lucha libre enthusiast who tumbles over the railing at a match and connects with the world of Mexican wrestling, potentially linking him by blood to the greatest hero, the Guardian Angel. Xavier Garza, born in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, is an enthusiastic author, artist, teacher, and storyteller, whose work vividly documents the dreams, superstitions, and heroes of south Texas. He won the 2012 Pura Belpré Author Honor Award.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
207 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Maximilian
Tio Lalo
Rodolfo 'The Guardian Angel'
Discussion points
How do you think Maximilian feels when he discovers his uncle is a luchador? What would you feel if you discovered a family secret?
Why is the lucha libre more than just a sport for Maximilian and his community?
Maximilian faces various challenges throughout the book. Can you share a time when you faced a challenge and how you overcame it?
What lessons do you think Maximilian learns about bravery and perseverance?
How do the characters in the story demonstrate the importance of family and heritage?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate personal experiences to Maximilian’s adventures to deepen understanding of the themes. Ask them to imagine themselves in Maximilian's world, discussing what decisions they would make. Highlight the cultural aspects of lucha libre and its significance, enriching their understanding of the story’s cultural context. After discussing, suggest re-enacting a favorite scene together to make the reading experience interactive and fun.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of Family Bonds
Explanation: Maximilian holds close and meaningful relationships with his family, especially his uncle, who introduces him to the world of lucha libre. Their interactions highlight respect, support, and guidance.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of maintaining strong family ties and cherishing advice from elders, which can enhance their emotional stability and sense of belonging.
Example Lesson: Persistence in Pursuing Goals
Explanation: Maximilian shows determination in discovering the identity of his lucha libre hero, El Angel, and in learning to become a wrestler himself. His journey illustrates the challenges and rewards found in persisting toward a goal.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to be persistent when facing challenges, understanding that hard work and dedication can lead to achieving personal goals and overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Importance of Heritage and Cultural Identity
Explanation: Through the colorful world of lucha libre, Max connects with his Mexican heritage, learning about the traditions and values embedded in it. This adds depth to his personal identity and pride.
Real-World Application: This narrative can motivate children to explore and appreciate their own cultures and traditions, fostering a deep sense of pride and identity.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face the Unknown
Explanation: Maximilian’s adventure involves unraveling mysteries and dealing with unexpected challenges, showing bravery in the face of uncertainty.
Real-World Application: It teaches children the virtue of courage—encouraging them to bravely face new experiences and unexpected challenges in life.
Example Lesson: Understanding the Value of Secrets
Explanation: The story explores complexities around secrets within families—balancing what should be kept private and what needs to be shared, all handled with sensitivity and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children learn about discretion and the importance of considering the impact of revealing or keeping secrets, guiding them in their social interactions and decision-making processes.