The Boy Who Turns Into a Truck: Austin Saves the Beach
#2 of 3 in The Boy Who Turns Into a Truck Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Have you ever loved something so much you dream about it at night? Welcome to Austin's world, the boy who LOVES trucks. Oh no! A beach with no sand! Come along with Austin on a magical adventure as he helps to save the day as a dump truck.
Discussion points
How do you think Austin felt when he first discovered he could turn into a truck? Why?
What are some ways Austin helps the environment at the beach? Can we do something similar in our community?
Why is it important to keep beaches clean? How does it affect the animals and people?
If you could turn into any vehicle to help others, which one would you choose and why?
What do you think is the most important lesson Austin learned during his adventure?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story by relating it to their own experiences. For example, discuss a time when they faced a challenge and had to overcome it. Emphasize the environmental themes by planning a family beach day or a local park cleanup. This not only reinforces the book's message but also provides a practical application. Ask open-ended questions that promote critical thinking and allow your child to consider the impact of their actions on their community and environment. Celebrate imaginative thinking by asking your child what special powers they would like to have to help others.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In the story, Austin takes on the task of cleaning the beach, demonstrating a strong sense of duty and commitment.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take responsibility for their own spaces, such as keeping their rooms tidy or helping with household chores.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Austin collaborates with other characters to save the beach, showing that working together can achieve greater results.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning to cooperate and value each team member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: The book highlights the importance of keeping natural habitats clean and the impact of pollution, through Austin's efforts to clean the beach.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in local clean-up events or be more diligent about recycling and waste management at home.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: Austin faces various challenges in his quest to clean the beach and must come up with creative solutions to overcome them.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and develop solutions for everyday problems, enhancing their decision-making skills.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Austin shows concern for the marine life affected by pollution, teaching empathy towards animals and understanding their needs.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more empathetic towards animals, understanding their role in the ecosystem and promoting kindness to all living creatures.