Quentin and the Cave Boy
What’s inside...
The STONE Age meets the TEENage! Quentin Moss is an average 13-year-old boy with an anything-but-average problem: the cave boy he dreamed about last night has shown up, alive and smelly, in his bedroom. As past and present collide with comic consequences, Quentin must hide the secret identity of his new friend who is fascinated by zippers and loves to flush the toilet - over and over again. Before the day is over, Quentin and his best friend, Buzz, have to find a way to help the homesick cave boy get back to his home - thousands of years in the past. But first they have to get through the school day. Quentin may not be the cutest, smartest guy in school, but the way he deals with the greatest adventure of his life will have readers of all ages laughing out loud.
Discussion points
How do you think Quentin felt when he first met the Cave Boy? What would you do if you were in his shoes?
What are some ways Quentin and the Cave Boy helped each other throughout the story?
Why is it important to help people who are different from us?
Can you think of a time when you made a new friend who was very different from you? How did you feel, and how did you become friends?
What would you like to explore with a friend, like Quentin and the Cave Boy explored together?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child how they relate to Quentin. Encourage them to share their feelings about making new friends or trying new things.
Highlight moments in the story where characters show kindness or understanding. Discuss with your child how they can apply these behaviors in their own lives.
Use the book as a springboard to talk about diversity, emphasizing the importance of learning from others who come from different backgrounds or have different experiences.
Encourage your child to describe in detail the adventures they would like to go on with their friends, fostering a sense of imagination and creativity.
After reading, do a fun activity together that mirrors an adventure from the book, enhancing the connection between the story and real-life experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Friendship and Acceptance
Explanation: Quentin and the Cave Boy portrays the budding friendship between characters from different backgrounds, highlighting the importance of acceptance and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace diversity and build friendships with peers who might look or act differently from themselves, promoting inclusivity in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Courage and Adventure
Explanation: The story follows the adventures of Quentin as he explores unknown territories with the cave boy, emphasizing the virtues of bravery and curiosity.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to step out of their comfort zones, try new activities, and be open to exploring new ideas and places.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout their journey, Quentin and the cave boy encounter various challenges that they must overcome together, showcasing effective problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these problem-solving techniques in their everyday challenges, whether in academic settings or in personal dilemmas, fostering resilience and critical thinking.