Not So New Mathew
#3 in Mathew's Adventures Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Follow Mathew, a young boy who discovers the magic in math and the adventures it can lead to, as he navigates through his school year overcoming challenges and making new friends.
Discussion points
How did Mathew feel when he moved to a new school, and have you ever felt the same way?
What are some ways Mathew tried to make new friends? Do you think these were good ideas?
Why do you think it's important to be kind and welcoming to new people?
How did the other students change their behavior towards Mathew by the end of the book?
If you were in Mathew’s new school, how would you have helped him feel more welcomed?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to convey the emotions that Mathew experiences throughout the book—this helps your child understand and empathize with his feelings.
Pause after key events to ask your child how they might feel in a similar situation, fostering a deeper connection with the character.
Discuss the actions of other characters in the book aside from Mathew to explore the concept of perspective-taking and empathy.
Relate the story to your child’s personal experiences with new situations or meeting new people to make the discussion more relevant.
Encourage your child to think about ways they can help new students or peers feel included, turning the book’s themes into actionable lessons.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of sharing
Explanation: In the story, the main character learns the importance of sharing his toys with others, realizing that it makes playtime more enjoyable for everyone.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by sharing their own toys or belongings with friends or siblings, fostering a cooperative and friendly environment.
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: When the protagonist tells the truth about a mistake, they find that others are more understanding and willing to help solve the problem.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be honest about their actions and mistakes in school or at home, leading to trust and support from those around them.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in facing challenges
Explanation: The character encounters several obstacles but learns that persistence eventually leads to success, as demonstrated by the final accomplishment in the story.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to keep trying in their own lives, whether it's learning a new skill or solving a difficult problem, understanding that perseverance is key to overcoming obstacles.