Picklewitch & Jack
#1 of 1 in Picklewitch and Jack Series
on Goodreads (71)
What’s inside...
The dreadful strangers moved in on a wild and windy Thursday.'Fudgenuts,' cursed Picklewitch, adjusting her cracked binoculars to get a better view of the comings-and-goings. 'This won't do at all. I bet they haven't even bought me any cake.'Picklewitch is, quite literally, out of her tree. She has a nose for naughtiness, a taste for trouble and a weakness for cake. And unluckily for brainbox Jack - winner of the 'Most Sensible Boy in School' for the third year running - she's about to choose him as her new best friend . . .
Why read this book
- Magical adventure fosters creativity and imagination.
- Encourages empathy and friendship through diverse characters.
- Engages young readers with witty, humorous dialogue.
- Supports cognitive development and problem-solving skills.
Discussion points
How did Jack's feelings about Picklewitch change throughout the story?
What kind of magic do you think you'd like to have, like Picklewitch? Why?
Why is it important to have friends who are different from us?
How did Picklewitch and Jack help each other in the story?
What lesson did you learn from Picklewitch and Jack's adventures?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, allow your child to express their thoughts and emotions about the characters, highlighting the significance of accepting others' differences.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the world of the book, asking them what magic they would use and why, linking it back to the characters' choices.
Discuss the moral lessons in the story, guiding the child to see how these lessons can be applied in their own friendships and daily life.
Focus on the development of the characters, particularly how their relationship evolves. Ask your child how they have grown or changed from their own friendships.
After reading, engage in a creative activity like drawing a new character for the story, which can help them connect more deeply with the themes discussed.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: The story showcases the unlikely friendship between Jack, a rule-following boy, and Picklewitch, a chaotic and nature-loving witch. Despite their differences, they find common ground and build a strong bond.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the value of accepting and celebrating differences among friends, encouraging them to be open to friendships with peers who may have different interests and behaviors.
Example Lesson: Embracing Individuality
Explanation: Picklewitch is unapologetically herself, regardless of the opinions of others, which earns her respect and friendship.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace and express their unique traits and opinions, fostering self-confidence and authenticity in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving and Cooperation
Explanation: Various situations in the book require Jack and Picklewitch to collaborate and use their individual strengths to solve problems.
Real-World Application: This narrative encourages kids to work together, combining their diverse skills to overcome challenges, which is a valuable approach in group tasks at school or home.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: Picklewitch’s deep connection with nature and her magical interactions with the environment highlight the importance of respecting and caring for the natural world.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to explore and appreciate the outdoors, promoting environmentally responsible behaviors from a young age.