Saurus Street 1: Tyrannosaurus in the Veggie Patch
#1 of 7 in Saurus Street Series
What’s inside...
Saurus St is just like any other street . . . except for the dinosaurs. When Jack wishes for his own Tyrannosaurus, he doesn't expect a real live one to turn up in the veggie patch. It's pretty cool, but there's no way he can keep it. It's far too big to hide in the shed, and it's bound to eat one of the neighbours sooner or later. With the help of local whizz kid Toby, Jack builds a time machine and sends the T-rex back to the dinosaur era. But when Toby, Jack and Charlie the dog get sent back to the Cretaceous period too, there's more than one troublesome Tyrannosaur to deal with.
Discussion points
How do you think Tom felt when he discovered the Tyrannosaurus in the veggie patch? Why?
What would you have done if you found a dinosaur in your backyard?
Why is it important for Tom and Tammy to work together in the story?
What can we learn from the dinosaur about handling unexpected situations?
If you could ask the Tyrannosaurus one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their own experiences to Tom's adventures, which makes the story more relevant and memorable. Use dramatic voice changes to depict different characters, making the reading session lively and enjoyable. Discuss the concept of teamwork and its importance as depicted in the story, promoting values of cooperation and collaboration in your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: The story showcases the main characters using their wit and resources to find solutions to unexpected problems, like a dinosaur appearing in their neighborhood.
Real-World Application: Children can apply problem-solving skills learned from the story to tackle their own challenges, whether it’s dealing with a difficult homework problem or resolving a disagreement with peers.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Characters in 'Saurus Street 1' collaborate to manage the chaos caused by the dinosaur, emphasizing that working together can achieve better results.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to appreciate the power of teamwork in group projects at school or in sports.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: The young protagonists face their fears when confronted with the daunting presence of a dinosaur, teaching bravery in the face of the unknown.
Real-World Application: Children learn to confront their own fears and uncertainties, be it trying out for a new sport, speaking in front of the class, or making new friends.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Taking care of a dinosaur in their veggie patch teaches the kids accountability for the situation at hand, no matter how unusual it may be.
Real-World Application: This translates to kids understanding the importance of being responsible for their pets, their belongings, or their actions at home and school.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: The characters employ creative thinking to navigate through the extraordinary scenario, turning a problematic situation into an adventurous one.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to use their imagination and creativity to turn their problems into opportunities, enhancing their ability to think outside the box in real life situations.