Stealing Thunder (Fesler-Lampert Minnesota Heritage)
The Fesler-Lampert Minnesota Heritage Book Series
on Goodreads (180)
What’s inside...
Libby has always dreamed of having a horse, and for the past three years, she's been working at her neighbors' stables in exchange for riding lessons. She forms a special bond with Thunder, the Porters' prize Appaloosa. However, when Jolene Porter, who has been giving her lessons, disappears, Mr. Porter stops Libby from seeing Thunder and mistreats the animals. With the help of a new friend, Griff, Libby concocts a plan to rescue Thunder. Together, they must navigate the challenges of keeping Thunder safe while evading Mr. Porter's control.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-13
Length
144 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Rosie felt when she realized she could change her destiny? What would you do if you were in her shoes?
What does it mean to be brave? Can you share a time when you had to be brave like Rosie?
What did you learn about different cultures and traditions from this book? How do they compare to our own?
How do the characters in the story show kindness and understanding towards each other? Why is that important?
If you could have a magical power like Rosie, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book's themes, such as courage, destiny, and cultural diversity. This will encourage your child to open up. Ask open-ended questions that relate the story to your child’s personal experiences. This helps them connect with the book on a deeper level. Pause at key moments in the story to predict what might happen next or discuss a character's decisions. This keeps your child actively thinking about the narrative. Share your observations and ask your child if they noticed the same things. This helps develop critical thinking and observational skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Stealing Thunder', the protagonist's journey highlights the importance of understanding and empathizing with others, especially those from different backgrounds.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect the diverse cultures and perspectives they encounter at school and in their community.
Example Lesson: Courage and Resilience
Explanation: As the protagonist faces various challenges, they showcase immense courage and resilience, teaching children the value of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children to face their own challenges, such as trying new activities or overcoming academic hurdles, with determination and resilience.
Example Lesson: The Value of Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters develop strong bonds of friendship that help them overcome obstacles, illustrating the power of supportive relationships.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to cultivate and value friendships in their own lives, which can provide emotional support and enrich their experiences.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The characters in the book often take on responsibilities that teach them about accountability and the impact of their actions on others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by taking responsibility in their everyday tasks and recognizing how their actions affect those around them.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving Skills
Explanation: The protagonist and their friends frequently encounter problems that require critical thinking and creativity to solve.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to approach their own problems with a strategic and creative mindset, enhancing their analytical skills and confidence in decision-making.