Taj's Torch
#2 in Torchlight Series
on Goodreads (3)
What’s inside...
Taj's Torch is an engaging story that follows the journey of Taj as he discovers a mysterious torch that leads him on an unexpected adventure. Throughout the book, readers are invited to join Taj as he navigates challenges and learns valuable life lessons. This story is part of Reading Champion, a series carefully linked to book bands to encourage independent reading skills, developed with Dr Sue Bodman and Glen Franklin of UCL Institute of Education (IOE). When Taj gets a torch for his birthday, he keeps shining it in everyone's face - and they are not too pleased! Reading Champion offers independent reading books for children to practice and reinforce their developing reading skills. Fantastic, original stories are accompanied by engaging artwork and a reading activity. Each book has been carefully graded so that it can be matched to a child's reading ability, encouraging reading for pleasure.
Discussion points
How did Taj feel when he first found the torch, and how did his feelings change throughout the story?
What would you do if you found something special like Taj’s torch?
Why is it important to share discoveries and experiences with others, like Taj did?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone, and how did that make you feel?
What do you think is the message of this story, and why is it important?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading the book, ask your child what they think the story might be about just by looking at the cover. This activates their imagination and sets the stage for engaged reading.
While reading, pause at key moments to ask your child how they think the characters are feeling. This helps in developing empathy and understanding emotions.
After reading, relate the story to your child’s personal experiences. For example, discuss a time when they discovered something new or helped a friend, linking it to Taj’s experiences in the book.
Encourage your child to draw or write about another adventure they think Taj could have with his torch, fostering creativity and extending the conversation beyond the book.
Use the themes of the book to have a broader conversation about the values of curiosity, sharing, and kindness.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Taj demonstrates courage as he uses his torch to navigate through a dark forest, overcoming his fear to help his friends.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing their fears and helping others, which can encourage them to tackle new challenges and be supportive friends in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: Throughout the story, Taj collaborates with his friends to find their way back home, highlighting how working together can lead to success.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of cooperating with others, applicable in group projects at school or in collaborative games.
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness and problem-solving
Explanation: Taj uses his torch not just for light, but also to create signals and communicate with his friends, showing clever ways to use available resources.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think critically and use what they have at hand to solve problems, a skill that can be applied in academic tasks or everyday challenges.
Example Lesson: Helping others in need
Explanation: Taj's journey is primarily motivated by his desire to help his friends who are lost and scared, emphasizing empathy and altruism.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be considerate and proactive in helping others, whether it’s helping a classmate understand a lesson or supporting a friend emotionally.