Nelson 1: Pumpkins and Aliens
#1 of 3 in Nelson Series
What’s inside...
Meet Nelson, an ordinary kid who is perceived as shy but is actually just bored. Nelson has a strong aversion to vegetables; he can't stand their smell, appearance, and especially dislikes eating them. However, his perspective on vegetables changes when he imagines that they could grant him superpowers. These newfound powers become crucial when an alien race, which Nelson made up in class, suddenly appears in his town and takes his school hostage, threatening to eat his teacher.
Discussion points
How did Nelson use his creativity to solve problems in the story?
What do you think about the relationship between Nelson and his friends?
If you were in Nelson's shoes, how would you react to meeting an alien?
What did you learn about teamwork from the story?
Which part of the adventure was your favorite and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their personal experiences to Nelson’s adventures, making connections between the story and their own life.
Facilitate a discussion on the importance of imagination and creativity, and how Nelson uses these skills to navigate his challenges.
Ask your child to imagine their own alien character and describe how they would interact with Nelson and his friends.
Highlight the themes of friendship and cooperation, and discuss similar situations in which teamwork is important.
Allow your child to express which parts of the book they found exciting or puzzling, and explore those feelings together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Differences
Explanation: In 'Nelson 1: Pumpkins and Aliens,' Nelson encounters beings who are unlike anyone he's ever met. Through his interactions, he learns to accept and embrace these differences.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of inclusivity and respecting others, regardless of how different they appear. This aids in fostering a diverse and accepting community from a young age.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Nelson faces various challenges and learns to think creatively to solve them, particularly when dealing with the aliens and pumpkins.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think outside the box and apply critical thinking in real-life situations, enhancing decision-making skills.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, Nelson works together with others to manage the unexpected alien situation, showing how collaboration can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of cooperating with others to achieve common goals, applicable in school projects and family activities.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing the unknown
Explanation: Nelson shows bravery when confronting the mysterious aliens and dealing with the pumpkins.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to face new experiences and challenges head-on, building resilience and self-confidence.