Maya, Stone, and The Crystal Forest
What’s inside...
Maya is a young girl who loves nothing more than going on adventures. She has always been fascinated by the idea of exploring new places and discovering all the treasures that the world has to offer. One day, Maya's best friend Stone tells Maya about a new land called The Crystal Forest, and all of its unexplored treasures. The two friends soon set off and together, Maya and Stone explore the magical land, discovering hidden treasures and secret caves along the way.
Discussion points
What do you think Maya felt when she first entered the Crystal Forest?
How do you think working together helped Maya and Stone on their adventure?
If you could have a magical crystal from the forest, what power would you want it to have?
Why do you think the author chose a forest made of crystals for the story’s setting?
How would you solve a problem similar to what Maya and Stone faced?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the story’s characters and magical elements to life, making the storyline more engaging for your child.
After reading each chapter, pause and ask your child to predict what might happen next, encouraging them to think critically about the story's direction and character decisions.
Discuss the moral of the story and relate it to everyday situations your child might encounter, helping them connect the story's lessons to their own experiences.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. This can lead to a deeper discussion about why they made that choice and what they liked about it.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: Maya and Stone must collaborate with creatures in the Crystal Forest to navigate challenges, illustrating how working together can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning to cooperate and value everyone's contributions.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Throughout their adventure, Maya and Stone encounter various fears but learn to overcome them bravely, showing resilience and bravery.
Real-World Application: This inspires children to tackle their own fears, whether it’s trying out for a new sport, standing up in class, or dealing with a bully.
Example Lesson: The significance of problem-solving
Explanation: The protagonists face puzzles and obstacles that require critical thinking and creativity to solve, highlighting the utility of a thoughtful approach.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to apply logical and creative thinking to solve homework problems or resolve conflicts with friends.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The story's setting in the Crystal Forest emphasizes the beauty and fragility of natural environments, teaching children to appreciate and protect nature.
Real-World Application: This can lead to children engaging in environmental conservation efforts, like recycling or planting trees in their community.
Example Lesson: The value of persistence
Explanation: Maya and Stone face numerous setbacks on their journey, but their determination to reach their goal exemplifies the importance of persistence.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to keep trying even when they face difficulties in schoolwork or learning new skills, understanding that persistence leads to achievement.