Shredderman: Secret Identity
#1 of 4 in Shredderman Series
What’s inside...
Alvin Bixby, also known as Bubba, is a hulking bully with knuckles of steel, hideous breath, and a foul temper, who has tormented Nolan Byrd for five years. Nolan, a small power walker and math genius who can't keep his shoes tied, is known as Nerd. When their teacher Mr. Green asks the class to become reporters, Nolan decides to write an exposé on Bubba. To protect his identity, Nolan creates a secret persona on the Internet and launches Shredderman.com, a website dedicated to truth, justice, and holding bullies accountable. This humorous and triumphant tale celebrates any kid who has ever wanted to become their own superhero.
Discussion points
How did Nolan use his talents to handle bullies? What would you do if you were in his shoes?
Why is it important to stand up for what is right, even when it's difficult?
Nolan created Shredderman in secret. Discuss why privacy is important, but also why it’s crucial to seek help when needed.
How did Nolan's relationship with his parents and teachers change throughout the book?
What does this story teach us about the impact of our actions on others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own experiences related to the themes of the book, such as dealing with bullies or standing up for what you believe is right.
Ask your child to draw or write about their favorite scene from the book. Use this as a springboard to discuss the story’s deeper messages.
Encourage your child to think about how they might use their own talents and skills to help others, just like Nolan.
Discuss the importance of seeking support from adults, like teachers or parents, when facing challenging situations, reinforcing the supportive roles adults play.
Use examples from the book to discuss the consequences of actions, helping your child understand how their actions can affect themselves and others.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Standing up against bullying
Explanation: The protagonist, Nolan, uses his intellect and creativity to anonymously expose the bullying behaviors of his classmate, promoting a safer school environment.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of addressing bullying in their communities and using non-violent methods to support peers who may be experiencing bullying.
Example Lesson: Importance of honesty and integrity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Nolan faces ethical dilemmas about maintaining his secret identity while exposing the truth. His decisions reflect the value of honesty even when it's challenging.
Real-World Application: This instills in children the value of being truthful and acting with integrity, even when faced with difficult choices.
Example Lesson: Creative problem-solving
Explanation: Nolan uses his technical skills to create a website as Shredderman, showcasing his ability to think outside the box to solve problems.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of using creativity and technology to solve problems, encouraging them to think innovatively in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As Nolan delves deeper into the lives of his classmates, he discovers the reasons behind their behaviors, which teaches him empathy.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand that everyone has their own struggles and that understanding others' perspectives is crucial in real-life social interactions.
Example Lesson: Courage to embrace one's identity
Explanation: Nolan starts to appreciate his unique qualities through his alter ego, Shredderman, and gains the courage to be more confident in his real life.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to appreciate and embrace their unique traits and talents, boosting their self-esteem and confidence in everyday situations.