SPHDZ Book #1! (1) (Spaceheadz)
#1 in Spaceheadz Series
What’s inside...
On his first day at Brooklyn's P.S. 858, fifth-grader Michael K. is teamed with two very strange students. As he gradually comes to believe they are aliens who need his help, he has trouble convincing anyone else of the truth. This middle grade series from the National Ambassador of Young People's Literature introduces real aliens who have invaded our planet disguised as school children and a hamster. Their mission is to convince 3,140,001 kids to BE SPHDZ, but with a hamster as their leader and 'kids' who talk like walking advertisements, it's uncertain if they can keep their cover and complete their assignment.
Discussion points
What would you do if you met someone from another planet? How would you communicate with them?
Why do you think the SPHDZ are trying to recruit 3.14 million and one Earthlings? What makes someone a good team member?
How do the characters in the book deal with challenges and unfamiliar situations? Can you relate to their experiences in any way?
What does friendship mean to the characters in 'SPHDZ Book #1!'? Have you ever had to help a friend in a strange or difficult situation?
Tip: Role play these questions
Foster an open and curious environment while discussing the book. Encourage your child to think creatively and empathize with the characters by asking how they would feel or react in similar situations. Use the book’s humor and quirky scenarios as a tool to engage your child’s imagination. Highlight the importance of teamwork and friendship as demonstrated in the story to impart valuable life lessons.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'SPHDZ Book #1!', the characters Michael K. and his new friends, who are aliens, must work together to accomplish their mission. Teamwork is consistently highlighted as they navigate challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by collaborating with peers on group projects at school or during team sports, learning that collective effort often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Embracing diversity and acceptance
Explanation: The book features a group of aliens trying to fit into a human school which teaches the readers to appreciate differences and be inclusive. It subtly discusses acceptance as Michael K. learns to accept his alien friends despite their differences.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the value of accepting and celebrating individual differences, promoting inclusivity in their interactions with diverse peers.
Example Lesson: Adaptability and problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters encounter various unexpected situations. They must adapt and think creatively to solve problems, demonstrating the flexibility needed to handle changes.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be adaptable and improve their problem-solving skills, which are applicable in everyday scenarios such as adapting to new environments or overcoming obstacles in learning and play.
Example Lesson: The power of persuasion and communication
Explanation: Michael K. and the SPHDZ team must persuade 3.14 million and one people to become SPHDZ to save the world, which highlights effective communication and persuasion throughout the book.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to develop their communication skills, teaching them how to express their ideas and opinions clearly and persuasively in school presentations or daily conversations.