Rocket Boy
Colour Fiction Series
What’s inside...
Did you know that the sky on Mars is red? Callum Grant does - and he knows a whole lot more about the solar system too. But he doesn't know what it would be like to see a Martian sunset with his own eyes. Until one day Callum sets off on an adventure unlike any other... An uplifting story that will take readers on a journey beyond our planet.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Rocket Boy felt when he was trying to build his rocket? Can you remember a time you worked hard on something?
How did Rocket Boy solve the problems he encountered? What can we learn from his perseverance?
Rocket Boy had many ideas about space. What fascinates you about space or the planets?
How do you think teamwork helped Rocket Boy and his friends during their adventure? Why is teamwork important?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use real-life examples to connect the story to your child's experiences, which can help them relate to Rocket Boy's adventures and challenges.
Encourage your child to express their ideas and thoughts about space, and if possible, complement the discussion with a simple space-related activity, like stargazing or creating a simple rocket model.
Discuss the importance of perseverance and teamwork showcased in the book. Highlight examples from the story and relate them to family or school situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The character of Rocket Boy faces numerous setbacks as he builds his rocket, yet he continues to try and improve his design.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persisting through difficulties, understanding that challenges are part of learning and achieving goals.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: Rocket Boy's quest to understand and explore space fuels his determination to build a rocket. His journey is filled with research and questions about the cosmos.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and seek knowledge about topics they are passionate about, promoting a lifelong love for learning.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: The protagonist utilizes unique materials and innovative ideas to create his rocket, showcasing his creativity.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to use their imagination in problem-solving, highlighting that there are many ways to approach a problem creatively.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Rocket Boy takes responsibility for his project from conception to execution, learning to manage tasks and solve problems independently.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of taking responsibility for their projects and the value of self-reliance.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Despite his initial desire to work alone, Rocket Boy learns the importance of seeking help and collaborating with friends to reach his goals.
Real-World Application: Shows children the value of teamwork and that collaboration can lead to greater success than working alone.