Selby Surfs
Selby Series
on Goodreads (179)
What’s inside...
Selby battles humungous waves at the Surf-Racing Championships while trying to keep his tongue-tickling talent tucked away. Surely Selby's secret won't be revealed just because he decided to try surfing! Ages 7-12
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
184 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Selby felt when he first tried surfing? Have you ever felt the same way trying something new?
What do you think makes Selby's adventures exciting? Can you think of an adventure you'd like to have?
Why is it important for Selby to have friends who support him? How do your friends support you?
What did Selby learn by the end of the book? What did you learn from Selby's story?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you read, allow your child to express their thoughts about the story. Pause at exciting moments to ask what they think might happen next.
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences. Discuss similarities and differences between their life and Selby's adventures.
Discuss the role of friendship in the book. Highlight how friends can help us try new things and make experiences more enjoyable.
At the end of the story, recap the main events. Ask your child to discuss what they liked best about Selby’s journey and what they learned.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: Selby, the adventurous dog, encounters numerous obstacles while learning to surf but never gives up.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of perseverance and trying again even when they face difficulties in their activities or learning processes.
Example Lesson: Importance of practice
Explanation: Throughout the book, Selby improves his surfing skills through constant practice, demonstrating that mastering a skill takes effort and time.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that they can get better at any skill, such as playing a musical instrument or a sport, through consistent practice and dedication.
Example Lesson: Courage to try new things
Explanation: Selby tries something completely new to him—surfing, which shows his courage to step out of his comfort zone.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to embrace new experiences, whether it’s joining a new club at school, or trying out a new hobby, helping them grow and learn more about themselves.
Example Lesson: Joy in activities
Explanation: Selby experiences pure joy and fun in surfing, which highlights the intrinsic rewards of engaging in activities that one enjoys.
Real-World Application: Children are reminded of the importance of engaging in play and activities that bring them happiness, which is essential for their emotional health.
Example Lesson: Learning from others
Explanation: In the story, Selby receives guidance and tips from other experienced surfers, which aids his progress.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of listening to and learning from others, whether it's teachers, parents, or peers, to improve their skills and knowledge.