Tek: The Modern Cave Boy
on Goodreads (708)
What’s inside...
Tek is a cave boy who is obsessed with technology, spending all his time on his devices and neglecting his friends and family. His communication skills have deteriorated to just one word: 'UGH'. The story explores whether anyone in the village can convince Tek to disconnect from his devices and experience the world outside. This tale is presented in a unique, tablet-shaped package by Patrick McDonnell, a bestselling author and creator of the MUTTS comic strip.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Tek felt when he was isolated from his friends and family because of his gadgets? Can you relate to his feelings?
What changes did you notice in Tek’s behavior after he started spending more time outside?
Why do you think the author chose a cave boy to tell this story about technology?
What are some of the fun activities you enjoy that don't involve screens?
How do you think we can balance our technology use to stay connected with the people around us?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts about technology in their own life. Relate Tek’s experiences to them personally to deepen the discussion.
Explore together how life might be different without modern gadgets, elaborating on both challenges and benefits.
Discuss the importance of outdoor activities and personal interactions, drawing parallels to Tek’s transformation in the story.
Be open to discussing your child's feelings about technology, whether they feel it helps in learning and connecting, or if it sometimes feels overwhelming.
Use examples from the book to highlight the value of balancing screen time with other aspects of daily life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Balancing technology and real-world interactions
Explanation: Tek, the main character, is a cave boy obsessed with gadgets, which isolates him from his surroundings. The story illustrates how putting away his devices allows him to reconnect with his friends and nature.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to prioritize face-to-face interactions and enjoy the natural environment, balancing screen time with outdoor play and social activities.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: As Tek disconnects from his gadgets, he rediscovers the joys of friendship. The story emphasizes how relationships thrive with direct interaction and joint adventures.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to invest time in building and maintaining friendships through personal interactions, teamwork, and shared experiences.
Example Lesson: Embracing change
Explanation: Initially, Tek is resistant to change, preferring his gadgets over anything else. The story demonstrates his journey towards embracing the world outside technology.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be open to new experiences and changes, understanding that adapting can lead to positive outcomes and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Impact of technology on health
Explanation: Tek’s constant use of gadgets affects his well-being. His transformation begins when he steps away from technology.
Real-World Application: By observing Tek’s story, children might understand the importance of regular breaks from screen time to engage in physical activity and protect their health.