Shortcut
on Goodreads (203)
What’s inside...
Albert and his trusty mare, June, set off early on market day to sell their melons in town, thus beginning a mysterious chain of events in a thought-provoking journey that exposes ordinary life as an intricate sequence of action and reaction.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-12
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the characters learned about taking shortcuts? Can shortcuts sometimes cause more problems than they solve?
Which part of the story surprised you the most, and why?
How would you have approached the problem differently if you were one of the characters?
What do you think the main message of the story is?
How do you think the characters felt when things didn't go as planned?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the shoes of the characters. Ask how they would have felt in similar situations.
Discuss the concept of 'shortcuts' in real life. Relate it to their daily activities and decisions.
Use expressive reading to keep the story engaging: modulate your voice for different characters and situations to enhance the emotional impact.
Connect the story to personal experiences. Share a personal story where a 'shortcut' impacted you positively or negatively.
Praise your child for their insights and answers, which supports their confidence in expressing their thoughts and opinions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: In 'Shortcut,' children navigate through unexpected challenges as they try to find their way back. Their inventive solutions to obstacles showcase problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children can apply problem-solving techniques in school projects or while resolving conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The characters in the story work together to overcome difficulties, highlighting the importance of cooperation and teamwork.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice teamwork in group activities at school or sports, learning to value each person’s contribution.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: Despite getting lost, the characters persist in finding a way back, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to stay determined and keep trying, even when faced with tough situations.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The children adapt to new situations as they find various paths and solutions, showing flexibility.
Real-World Application: Adapting to changes like moving to a new school or adjusting to new routines at home.
Example Lesson: Observation and Awareness
Explanation: The journey requires the characters to be observant, using clues in their environment to guide them.
Real-World Application: Enhances a child’s attention to detail and situational awareness, useful in both academic settings and personal safety.