TJ Zaps the Rumor Mill: Stopping Gossip (TJ Trapper, Bully Zapper) (Tj Trapper Bully Zapper, 4)
#4 in Tj Trapper Bully Zapper Series
What’s inside...
All kinds of embarrassing rumors are swirling around TJ's class and mostly he thinks they are pretty funny, until he becomes the target of the gossip--then he needs to find out who started the rumors, and why. TJ's excited when his dad leaves Auntie Stella in charge while he's out of town. He thinks it's going to be a great week filled with junk food, movies, and staying up late. But it turns out to be anything but fun when TJ hears a nasty rumor about himself! When he tries to get to the bottom of it, he accidentally starts another rumor! Will Dad come home in time to help straighten up both messes or will TJ Trapper be forced to zap the rumors all by himself? Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Calico is an imprint of Magic Wagon, a division of ABDO.
Discussion points
How did TJ feel when he heard the rumors, and what actions did he take to address them?
Why do you think people sometimes spread rumors, and how can it affect others?
What are some ways you can help stop a rumor if you hear one at school or among friends?
Can you think of a time when you or someone you know was affected by a rumor? How was the situation resolved?
What did you learn from TJ's actions that you can use if you encounter gossip in your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, ask your child what they know about rumors and gossip, setting the stage for deeper understanding.
While reading, pause after key moments to ask your child how they think the characters are feeling, fostering empathy and insight.
Post-reading, encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences, which can help them apply the book’s lessons personally.
Discuss the importance of honesty and the impact of words, reinforcing the moral takeaways from TJ’s story.
Use the book as an opportunity to set family guidelines about trust and communication, making the reading experience both educational and practical.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the impact of gossip
Explanation: TJ teaches children the consequences of spreading rumors and the damages it can cause.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of thinking before speaking and the value of speaking truthfully in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Developing empathy
Explanation: The book explores how rumors can hurt others' feelings, encouraging readers to consider the perspectives of those around them.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this by being more mindful and considerate about how their words affect their peers.
Example Lesson: Importance of communication
Explanation: TJ addresses misunderstandings and conflicts through open and honest communication.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to seek clarity and resolve disputes through dialogue rather than assumptions or rumors.
Example Lesson: Taking responsibility
Explanation: Characters in the book learn to take accountability for their part in spreading rumors.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to own up to their mistakes and understand their role in conflicts, fostering a sense of responsibility.