Mr Gum and the Goblins
#3 of 11 in Mr. Gum Series
What’s inside...
The third side-splittingly funny book in a series for very brave readers. Well, that old roo-de-lally Mr Gum and the hideous Billy William the Third are once more mucking things up for everyone. They're a-schemin' and a-hatchin' an' making their bad plans up on Goblin Mountain. And why? Because they're raising up an army of goblins to stink up the town of Lamonic Bibber once and for all! Can the brave travelers (the wise old man Friday O'Leary and the small girl Polly) make it past the Three Impossible Challenges of Goblin Mountain and save the town from a fate worse than something very bad indeed? In an epic tale of courage, valor, and plain idiocy only one thing is sure: The truth is a lemon meringue!
Discussion points
What do you think motivates Mr. Gum and the goblins to behave the way they do? How do their actions affect others in the story?
How did the character of Polly change throughout the book? What important lessons do you think she learned?
If you could give advice to any character in the book, who would it be and what would you tell them?
What are some ways the characters in the story showed bravery or kindness?
How do you think the story would change if it took place in our town today?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think deeply about the characters' motivations and the consequences of their actions. Highlight how understanding different perspectives can help us develop empathy. Use examples from the book to discuss the importance of bravery and kindness in their daily lives. Ask them how they would feel and react if they were in similar situations as the characters. This not only enhances comprehension but also helps in connecting the story to real-life scenarios.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'Mr Gum and the Goblins', characters work together to solve problems and face challenges, showcasing how teamwork can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Children learn to collaborate with others, whether in school projects or in playing sports, understanding that cooperation can achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Respecting nature
Explanation: The story emphasizes the beauty and significance of nature through the adventures in the magical forest, teaching the readers to appreciate and take care of their environment.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to engage in activities that promote environmental conservation like recycling and planting trees.
Example Lesson: The value of courage
Explanation: Characters in the book often face fears and take brave actions, showing children that courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to face their own fears and learn that being brave can help them overcome obstacles and try new experiences.
Example Lesson: The consequences of greed
Explanation: The negative traits and outcomes of the greedy antagonist highlight the detrimental effects of selfishness.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to be generous and think of how their actions affect others, discouraging selfish behavior.
Example Lesson: The power of kindness
Explanation: Positive outcomes result when characters treat others with kindness, depicting how acts of goodwill can lead to happiness and friendship.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to practice kindness in their daily interactions, fostering a supportive and friendly environment around them.