My Magnificent Jelly Bean Tree
What’s inside...
My Magnificent Jelly Bean Tree is a delightful tale about the magical possibilities of a jelly bean tree. The narrator envisions all the fun activities they will do with the tree, such as making jelly bean pie, serving it with jelly bean cream, and brewing a large pot of jelly bean tea. Some people say jelly beans don't grow on trees, but not this little boy who believes in magic. The kind of magic that takes him to the top of the jelly bean tree to watch a river of clouds in the sky or slide down the tree on a helter-skelter slide. He watches his jelly bean tree grow, feasts fantastically on jelly beans, and triumphantly crowns himself the jelly bean king. A magical tale that will delight all ages with whimsical illustrations bursting with color.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What would you do if you had a magical jelly bean tree?
How do you think the boy felt when he saw his tree growing?
Why is it important to believe in your dreams, like the boy did with his jelly bean tree?
What are some ways we can help our dreams grow?
How would you decorate your jelly bean tree?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, encourage your child to use their imagination and think creatively about the magical elements.
Ask your child to express their feelings about the story and connect them to personal experiences where they hoped or dreamed for something.
Foster a deeper understanding by relating the boy’s patience and care for his jelly bean tree to situations where your child has to wait for something they really want.
Encourage your child to draw or create their version of a jelly bean tree after reading the story, discussing each choice of color or decoration they make.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The protagonist dreams up a whimsical world revolving around a jelly bean tree, showcasing the boundless possibilities of a child's imagination.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in creative play, developing unique stories or art projects, and thinking outside the box in their daily activities.
Example Lesson: Patience and Perseverance
Explanation: As the story unfolds, the child nurtures and waits patiently for the tree to grow, portraying the importance of patience and consistent effort.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be reflected in a child’s life through activities like planting a garden, learning a new skill, or working on a long-term project, encouraging them to understand the value of patience and steady effort.
Example Lesson: Sharing and Generosity
Explanation: Once the jelly bean tree begins producing, the young protagonist shares the jelly beans with friends, highlighting the joy and importance of sharing.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to share their belongings, snacks, or time with peers to build stronger friendships and understand the impact of generosity in their community.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: The book subtly introduces the concept of planting and caring for trees, instilling a sense of responsibility towards nature.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in local tree planting events, take care of plants at home, or engage in recycling activities to cultivate an appreciation for their environment.
Example Lesson: Value of Dreams
Explanation: Through the character’s commitment to the dream of a magnificent jelly bean tree, the story underscores the importance of holding onto one's dreams.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to set personal goals, whether in academics, hobbies, or relationships, and pursue them with dedication, just like the character does with the jelly bean tree.