One Trick Pony
#1 of 1 in One Trick Pony Series
What’s inside...
In a desolate future Earth, the aliens have arrived with a hunger for electricity, consuming everything electrical in their path—including human limbs. Strata and her family are part of a caravan of digital rescuers, aiming to preserve civilization's memory by salvaging electronics. As humans revert to pre-electrical times or turn into bandits, Strata finds herself isolated with her brother and must rely on a rare, elegant robot pony to navigate through hostile territories. With the ultimate goal of defeating the alien invaders, they embark on a perilous journey of survival and resistance. 'One Trick Pony' is a thrilling post-apocalyptic science fiction graphic novel by the bestselling author of Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales.
Character compass
Strata
Auger
Discussion points
What do you think Strata and her brothers learned about trust and teamwork during their adventure?
How do you think the robots' actions affected the world in the story?
If you had a robotic pony like Kleidi, what would you do together?
What were the most challenging moments for the characters, and how did they handle them?
How would you have reacted if you were in Strata’s place at different points in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts about the bond between Strata and Kleidi, highlighting the importance of friendship and loyalty.
Discuss the futuristic setting of the story and ask your child how they imagine the future; compare their ideas with the book’s depiction.
Bring attention to the problem-solving aspects of the narrative. Ask your child how they might solve similar challenges.
Use the themes of perseverance and courage from the book to talk about any personal challenges your child might be facing.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. Let them explain why they made that choice.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: In 'One Trick Pony', the protagonists work together, leveraging each other’s strengths to overcome challenges posed by the alien invaders. This collaboration is key to their success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in group projects or sports, learning that cooperation and using everyone's unique abilities leads to achieving goals.
Example Lesson: Importance of resourcefulness
Explanation: The characters in the story use their wits and available resources to navigate through the perils they face. Their ability to think on their feet is highlighted throughout the plot.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think creatively and use available resources to solve problems, be it in their studies, play, or daily tasks.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Through their perilous journey, the characters demonstrate perseverance despite numerous setbacks. This resilience becomes a theme as they persist in their mission.
Real-World Application: Children learn to maintain a positive attitude and keep trying in the face of difficulties, whether that be in completing a tough homework assignment or resolving a conflict with a friend.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature and the environment
Explanation: In their journey, the characters encounter various aspects of their environment that they must navigate and respect to survive, showing the importance of the natural world.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of caring for the environment around them, teaching them to be mindful of their impact on the earth.
Example Lesson: Courage to confront the unknown
Explanation: The heroes of 'One Trick Pony' must venture into unknown territories and face unforeseen challenges bravely.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to face new experiences and challenges with bravery, whether it's trying out a new sport, making new friends, or exploring new ideas.