The Man with the Magic Foot: A football adventure for 9-13 yr olds (Chadmouth Town Football Club)
#1 of 2 in Chadmouth Town Series
on Goodreads (12)
What’s inside...
From Wishing Shelf Award finalist Ian Slatter comes a thrilling soccer adventure for 9-12 year olds. Chadmouth Town haven't won anything for 60 years, and Ches, a young fan, suddenly finds himself traveling back in time to the 1960s, just days before the club's one and only FA Cup Final appearance. As Ches scrambles to secure a ticket to the match, an accident threatens to alter history and jeopardize the team's chances of winning. It's up to Ches to correct the course of events and ensure Chadmouth Town remains champions.
Discussion points
How do you think Jake felt when he first discovered his magic foot? Can you relate to his emotions?
What lessons did Jake learn about teamwork and friendship throughout the story?
Do you think having a 'magic foot' made things easier or more challenging for Jake? Why?
If you had a magic foot, how would you use it, both in sports and in everyday life?
What do you think is the most important message of this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Enable your child to express their thoughts by listening attentively and showing genuine interest in their ideas.
Draw parallels between the story's events and your child's personal experiences to make the conversation more relatable.
Encourage critical thinking by asking them what they would do differently if they were in Jake’s shoes.
Discuss the concept of teamwork and friendship in the book, and relate it to your child’s experiences in school or sports teams.
Reinforce the values taught in the book, such as perseverance and humility, by sharing real-life examples or personal stories.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The protagonist learns the importance of working together with his teammates to win football matches.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports teams, learning to cooperate and value each member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Persistence and determination
Explanation: Throughout the book, the main character faces challenges but continually strives to improve his football skills.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of staying dedicated to their goals, whether in academics, sports, or personal hobbies.
Example Lesson: Respecting diversity
Explanation: The football team is made up of players from different backgrounds, and learning to respect each other's differences is a key theme.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and embrace diversity among peers and in their community.
Example Lesson: Handling success and failure
Explanation: As the team experiences both wins and losses, the characters learn to handle success with humility and failure with grace.
Real-World Application: This lesson prepares children to face various outcomes in life, teaching them resilience and good sportsmanship.
Example Lesson: Importance of mentorship
Explanation: The coach plays a crucial role in guiding and motivating the team, showing how mentors can positively impact our lives.
Real-World Application: Children understand the importance of seeking guidance and support from teachers, coaches, and other role models.