Rocket and Groot: Stranded on Planet Strip Mall! (Marvel Middle Grade Novel)
#2 in Rocket & Groot Chapter Book Adventures, Marvel Press Novels Series
on Goodreads (681)
What’s inside...
After battling deadly space piranhas in Sector 7 of the Cosmos, Rocket and Groot crash-land on a planet made entirely of strip malls. This planet is filled with dry cleaners, nail salons, discount stores, chain restaurants, and maniacal robots dedicated to customer service. However, it is far from paradise as the planet is infested with raccoon-eating toilets, which poses a deadly threat to Rocket. With no resources but each other, and Veronica, a super-intelligent tape dispenser, they must navigate this bizarre planet. The story is uniquely told through Rocket's black-and-white drawings and Veronica's text.
Discussion points
What do you think Rocket and Groot felt when they landed on the Planet Strip Mall? How would you feel in a similar situation?
What are some ways Rocket and Groot showed teamwork throughout their adventure?
If you could have a gadget from the story, which one would you choose and why?
How did Rocket and Groot handle challenges they faced? Can you think of a time you faced a challenge and how you dealt with it?
What do you think is the most important lesson Rocket and Groot learned during their adventure?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Rocket and Groot’s shoes to foster empathy and understanding. Use comparisons to real-life situations to make the discussion more relatable. Highlight the importance of teamwork and problem-solving as demonstrated by the characters. Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or different scenarios to develop their creative thinking. Praise your child for their insights and encourage them to express their thoughts and emotions about the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'Rocket and Groot: Stranded on Planet Strip Mall!', Rocket Raccoon and Groot must work together to navigate challenges and obstacles. Their success often hinges on their ability to cooperate and combine their unique skills.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of collaborating with others to achieve common goals, whether in school projects or sports teams.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters encounter various problems that require creative thinking and quick decision-making. This helps illustrate effective problem-solving techniques.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to think critically and creatively when faced with challenges in their own lives, such as resolving conflicts with peers or tackling difficult school assignments.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Rocket and Groot face an unfamiliar environment on Planet Strip Mall and must adapt to survive. The story shows how being flexible and open to change is crucial when dealing with new situations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more adaptable in their everyday lives, helping them to navigate new experiences and environments with ease, such as moving to a new school or adjusting to changes at home.
Example Lesson: Humor and Positive Attitude
Explanation: Despite their dire circumstances, Rocket and Groot often use humor to cope with their situation. This demonstrates the power of maintaining a positive attitude, even in difficult times.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the value of humor as a coping mechanism and the importance of looking on the bright side, which can be beneficial in managing stress and anxiety.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The characters repeatedly face setbacks but continue striving towards their goal. The narrative emphasizes the importance of perseverance and not giving up despite difficulties.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to persist in their efforts, whether it is learning a new skill, improving in a sport, or achieving academic goals.