The Marvellous Sugee Cake
#4 in Heritage Picture Book Series
on Goodreads (14)
What’s inside...
On Simon's seventh birthday, sugee cake promises to be more than just a birthday treat—it brings together family and friends. Simon's family always makes sugee cake on special occasions, and today is one of those days. It's Simon's seventh birthday and he can't wait to bite into a slice. But when Simon sits down to enjoy his treat, things don't go as planned. Or so it seems, for unbeknown to Simon, his friends and family have been planning a birthday surprise for him—one that involves a marvellous sugee cake! A homage to sugee cake that vows to entertain readers as they follow the adventures of Simon and his friends.
Discussion points
What did you like most about the story of 'The Marvellous Sugee Cake'?
How did the characters in the book show kindness and teamwork?
What would you have done if you were in the place of the main character?
How do you think the cake changed the way the characters felt in the story?
What have you learned from the story that you could use in your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, provide a brief overview of what Sugee Cake is, enhancing the child's curiosity about the story.
Encourage the child to imagine and describe their own version of a 'marvellous' cake, fostering creativity.
Ask the child to predict the next series of events after every few pages to keep them engaged and thinking ahead.
Post-reading, engage in a creative activity such as drawing scenes or characters from the book to reinforce memory and understanding.
Discuss the moral lessons in the story and relate them to everyday situations the child encounters to aid in character development.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of traditions
Explanation: In 'The Marvellous Sugee Cake,' the protagonist learns to bake a traditional Sugee Cake, an activity that bonds generations in their family.
Real-World Application: Children can appreciate and participate in cultural or family traditions, understanding their significance and enjoying continuity with the past.
Example Lesson: Importance of perseverance
Explanation: The character faces challenges in perfecting the Sugee Cake recipe but continues to try until successful, demonstrating determination.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to persist through difficulties in tasks or challenges, whether in academics, sports, or personal projects.
Example Lesson: Sharing brings joy
Explanation: The joy of sharing the Sugee Cake with family and friends is highlighted, showing the happiness that comes from generosity.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to share with others, such as toys or snacks, fostering a sense of community and empathy.
Example Lesson: Learning from elders
Explanation: The protagonist learns the recipe and baking tips from an older family member, showing respect and learning from the elderly.
Real-World Application: Kids understand the value of listening to and learning from older family members or community figures.
Example Lesson: Creativity in problem-solving
Explanation: When initial attempts to bake the cake fail, creative solutions are used to improve. This highlights innovative thinking.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think creatively when faced with problems, applying new ideas to school projects or daily challenges.