The Magic Button
Adventure Awaits Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
The Magic Button is an enchanting tale that follows the journey of a young protagonist who discovers a mysterious button that, when pressed, transports them to magical worlds filled with adventure and wonder. As they navigate through these fantastical realms, they learn valuable life lessons and the power of imagination. Separately, Jacob would rather be playing videogames than doing anything else. He doesn't have to feel worried when he's saving the world, after all. But when his strange Auntie Nush sends him a magic button for his birthday, Jacob will have to learn the true meaning of courage.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What would you do if you found a magic button that could change the world?
How did Ben’s choices affect the people around him?
Why do you think Ben decided to use the button the way he did?
Can you think of a situation where you could make a big difference with just a small action?
What would you change if you had a magic button for a day?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think deeply about the consequences of Ben’s choices by asking them to relate it to their own experiences.
Discuss the moral implications of having such power like the magic button, reinforcing the importance of thoughtful decision-making.
Let your child express their ideas freely about what they would change in the world, fostering creativity and a sense of agency.
Use examples from the book to illustrate the ripple effect of actions, showing how small changes can lead to big impacts.
Highlight the themes of responsibility and the impact of our choices, asking your child how they might apply these lessons in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The power of patience
Explanation: In 'The Magic Button,' the protagonist learns that waiting patiently often leads to better outcomes. This is demonstrated when the protagonist waits for the perfect moment to use the magic button, which results in a more favorable outcome.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by understanding the value of waiting their turn or taking time to think decisions through before acting.
Example Lesson: Understanding consequences
Explanation: The story highlights the importance of considering the consequences of our actions. The Magic Button could change things instantly, teaching that every action, like every press of the button, has a reaction.
Real-World Application: This helps children grasp the concept of cause and effect, and encourages them to think about the potential outcomes of their actions before they act.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: The book celebrates creativity, as the protagonist imagines all the possibilities the magic button can bring. This opens up a world of creativity and endless possibilities.
Real-World Application: Children learn to use their imagination to solve problems or entertain themselves in their daily activities, boosting their creative thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The protagonist learns that with great power comes great responsibility, especially when handling the magic button that can alter things drastically.
Real-World Application: Kids can relate this to handling their own belongings or tasks, understanding that they must take care of their actions and responsibilities.
Example Lesson: The importance of contentment
Explanation: Eventually, the protagonist realizes that happiness does not come from changing everything around them but from appreciating what they already have. This is a pivotal moment in the book.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate their own lives and find joy in their current surroundings and possessions rather than constantly seeking more.