The Adventures of Vin Fiz
#1 in Lacey & Casey Series
on Goodreads (618)
What’s inside...
Ten-year-old twins Lacey and Casey Nicefolk have always wanted to fly, but kids can’t fly . . . or can they? They can if they know the mysterious Sucoh Sucop, a man who claims to have an enchanted box that can transform any toy into the real thing! Before you know it, the twins, along with their droopy-eared basset hound, Floopy, are soaring cross-country in a real-live Wright brothers biplane, which they name Vin Fiz (after Casey’s favorite grape soda). But dangers lurk everywhere, and if the twins are to make it all the way to New York, their courage will have to make heroes of them many times over. Thank goodness they have the magical Vin Fiz on their side!
Discussion points
What aspect of Vin Fiz's adventure did you find most exciting, and why?
How do you think friendship helped Vin Fiz and Casey on their journey?
If you could invent a flying machine like Vin Fiz, what special features would it have?
What lessons do you think Vin Fiz learned throughout his adventures?
How would you have handled the challenges that Vin Fiz faced?
Tip: Role play these questions
Show genuine interest in their responses to encourage deeper reflection.
Compare Vin Fiz's adventures to family experiences to make the discussion relatable.
Ask follow-up questions based on their answers to expand the conversation.
Discuss the historical context and innovation during Vin Fiz's time to enhance learning.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance through challenges
Explanation: The protagonist, Casey, faces numerous obstacles during his journey across America in the Vin Fiz. Despite setbacks, Casey remains determined and resourceful.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stay committed to their goals, even when they encounter difficulties. This can apply to school projects, sports, or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: Casey often relies on his sister and friends to overcome challenges. Their collaborative efforts are crucial for the success of their adventure.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of cooperating with others to achieve common objectives, whether in group assignments or family tasks.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning
Explanation: Throughout the story, Casey is driven by curiosity, which leads him to learn more about aviation and geography.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore their interests and seek knowledge actively, enhancing their education both in and out of the classroom.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Casey shows resilience when faced with mechanical failures and natural barriers, continually finding new ways to move forward.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to adopt a resilient mindset in overcoming personal challenges, from dealing with a tough subject at school to handling social conflicts.
Example Lesson: Respect for history and heritage
Explanation: The historical aspects of the first transcontinental journey by the Wright brothers are elegantly woven into the storyline, offering a lesson in respect for past achievements.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate historical events and the efforts of those who came before them, potentially fostering a deeper respect for cultural and familial heritage.