SPHDZ Book #2! (2) (Spaceheadz)
Spaceheadz Series
What’s inside...
The campaign to save the earth from being turned off is going well, but Michael K. must enlist fellow fifth-graders Venus and TJ to help hide the SPHDZ from Agent Umber, especially when they become involved in a school play. The SPHDZ are still trying to blend in to Earth culture, but not very successfully, mixing up Thanksgiving, cartoon plots, holidays, and commercials. This makes it difficult for Michael K. to both hide the SPHDZ and accomplish their mission. Things get even more challenging when they are given the assignment to write and perform the school play, and Umber thinks he's closing in on the aliens playing the turkeys.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
230 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What would you do if you encountered aliens like Michael K., and how would you help them blend in on Earth?
How did the friendship between the characters change throughout the story? Discuss any moments where they had to rely on each other.
Why do you think the author chose to mix real-world elements with fantastical ones, like talking classroom pets and alien missions?
What lessons did the characters learn about trust and teamwork, and how can you apply these lessons in your own life?
If you could create your own SPHDZ mission, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your personal reactions to the book and ask your child what they felt about the story to create an open dialogue.
Use examples from the book to discuss broader themes such as diversity and acceptance, asking your child how they relate to these concepts in their everyday life.
Encourage your child to think creatively by asking them to imagine their own extra-terrestrial adventures or by drawing scenes from the book.
Reinforce the importance of teamwork discussed in the book by planning a family or group activity where everyone needs to work together to achieve a common goal.
End your conversation by asking about your child's favorite character and why, to understand their perspective and cognitive development.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters work together to solve problems and face challenges, demonstrating the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in school during group projects or in sports, learning to cooperate and value each team member's contributions.
Example Lesson: Adaptability and Problem-Solving
Explanation: The Spaceheadz characters often encounter unpredictable situations, and they must adapt and think creatively to navigate them.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of being flexible and innovative, skills that are valuable in ever-changing real-world scenarios.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness
Explanation: As the characters are from different parts of the universe, the book explores themes of diversity and the acceptance of different cultures.
Real-World Application: Children learn to embrace and celebrate diverse cultures in their communities, promoting inclusivity and understanding.
Example Lesson: Importance of Humor
Explanation: Humor is a significant part of the book, providing entertainment and light-heartedness while addressing serious themes.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the value of humor in everyday life, aiding in stress reduction and improving overall happiness.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The young characters in the story take on significant responsibilities, learning to manage them effectively.
Real-World Application: Children can learn from this by understanding the importance of fulfilling their duties, whether it's household chores, homework, or other commitments.