Polly Diamond and the Magic Book
#1 of 2 in Polly Diamond Series
What’s inside...
Polly loves words and writing stories. When a magic book that can make her written words come to life appears on her doorstep, she thinks all her dreams are about to come true. However, she soon discovers that there is a difference between what you write and what you mean. This chapter book series, described as enchanting, upbeat, and lovable, is perfect for fans of Ivy + Bean, Amelia Bedelia, and Dory Fantasmagory.
Discussion points
How do you think Polly felt when she discovered the magic in her book? Have you ever wished for something magical to happen?
What would you write in a magic book if you had one? Why?
Polly learns that her words have consequences. Can you think of a time when your words affected someone else? How did it make you feel?
How did Polly solve her problems with the magic book? What would you have done differently?
What does this story teach us about creativity and responsibility?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts about magic and ask your child if they have ever imagined having magical powers. This can set a relatable groundwork for discussing the book.
Encourage your child to draw or write a short entry about their own magic book. Discuss what they create and tie it back to Polly’s experiences in the story.
Praise your child's responses to underscore the importance of their thoughts and feelings, and relate their experiences to those of Polly to enhance personal connection to the story.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's answers to the key questions to deepen the discussion and ensure they understand the themes of the book.
Discuss the morals of the story, focusing on responsibility while using creativity, which can help your child in real-life applications of these lessons.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The power of words and creativity
Explanation: Polly Diamond discovers that the words she writes in her magic book become reality, showcasing the impact and creativity that words can wield.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of choosing words carefully and using them creatively to express themselves and solve problems in daily situations.
Example Lesson: Responsibility for one's actions
Explanation: As Polly experiments with her magic book, she learns that her actions have consequences, and she must take responsibility for what she creates.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to think about the outcomes of their actions and to be accountable, which is crucial in personal development and interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, Polly encounters challenges that she must overcome by thinking critically and creatively.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that they can use in school and in their personal lives.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for family and home
Explanation: Polly's adventures lead her to a greater appreciation for her family and her home environment as she understands their importance.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to value and cherish their family and the security that their home provides, fostering gratitude and respect.
Example Lesson: The joy of reading and writing
Explanation: The central role of a magical book in the story highlights the enjoyment and adventures that reading and writing can bring.
Real-World Application: This lesson promotes literacy and encourages children to explore their own imagination through reading and writing, enhancing their literacy skills and creative thinking.