Puffin Classics The Diary of a Space Traveller & Other Stories
#3 in Puffin modern classics Series
on Goodreads (342)
What’s inside...
Exciting, imaginative, and funny, this collection of stories follows the adventures of Professor Shonku, an eccentric genius scientist who disappeared after launching into space. The stories, based on diaries found in his abandoned laboratory, feature a range of bizarre encounters, including a ferocious sadhu, a revengeful mummy, and a mad scientist in Norway. The narrative captures the magic of Ray's lucid language, elegant style, graphic descriptions, and absurd humor, as Professor Shonku wins over a new band of followers with his incredible tales.
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to travel in space like in the story?
How do the characters in the book solve problems they encounter?
What emotions do you think the characters felt during their space travels?
Which story in the book was your favorite and why?
If you could create your own space adventure, what would it look like?
Tip: Role play these questions
Show genuine interest in their responses to encourage deeper thinking and connection.
Share your own thoughts about the space travel concept to create a two-way conversation.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to delve further into their understanding and imagination.
Relate the stories to real-life astronauts and space missions to make the discussion educational and inspiring.
Encourage your child to draw or write their own short space adventure after the discussion to foster creativity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: The protagonist in 'The Diary of a Space Traveller' is shown as someone deeply interested in the mysteries of space, depicting an admirable zest for knowledge.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore new subjects and ask questions about the world around them, fostering a lifelong love of learning.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters encounter various challenges in their interstellar adventures which they must solve using their wit and resources.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of critical thinking and creativity in overcoming obstacles in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The characters face numerous setbacks during their space journey but persistently push through, showcasing the power of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn to handle disappointment and setbacks, understanding that perseverance is key to achieving goals.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness
Explanation: Interactions with beings from different planets expose the characters, and thereby the readers, to varied cultures and ways of life.
Real-World Application: This promotes openness and tolerance in children towards people who might look or act differently from them.
Example Lesson: Environmental consciousness
Explanation: Stories hint at the importance of sustaining and preserving both Earth and extraterrestrial environments encountered by the characters.
Real-World Application: Children become aware of environmental issues and the significance of being responsible inhabitants of the planet.