The Scrambled States of America Talent Show
Scrambled States Series
on Goodreads (468)
What’s inside...
Those wacky scrambled states are back. This time they’ve come together for a spectacular show featuring their many goofball talents. But just when Indiana (the director) is about to call SHOWTIME!, Georgia gets a bad case of stage fright and can’t perform in her juggling act. Will the show go on, or will it be curtains? In this winning companion to The Scrambled States of America, young readers will revel in the madcap adventure and silly antics all while learning interesting facts about states and geography. The Scrambled States of America Talent Show is a 2009 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What talent would you choose if you were to participate in a talent show like the states? Why?
How did the different states' talents make you feel? Did any talent surprise you?
Why do you think teamwork was important in the talent show?
How do you think the states felt when they tried new things?
What does this story teach us about friendship and trying new things?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts on each state’s unique talent, helping them appreciate individual differences and creativity.
Ask your child how they would help a friend who was nervous about showing their talent, fostering a discussion about empathy and support.
Discuss the importance of trying new things and stepping out of one’s comfort zone, linking it to the states trying different talents.
While discussing the story, relate it to real-life situations where teamwork led to successful outcomes, reinforcing the theme of collaboration.
Use the book’s illustrations to deepen the conversation, asking your child to describe what they see and how it adds to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: The book showcases various states in America, each with unique characteristics and talents, demonstrating how diversity creates a vibrant and dynamic environment.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect individual differences among their peers, promoting inclusivity and tolerance in daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Building Self-Confidence
Explanation: As the states prepare and perform in the talent show, they display courage and self-expression, boosting their confidence.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to participate in activities that allow them to express themselves and develop self-assurance in their abilities.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the talent show, the states must work together to organize and execute the event successfully, highlighting the value of cooperation and collective effort.
Real-World Application: Children learn that teamwork is essential in achieving common goals, whether in school projects, sports, or family activities.
Example Lesson: Learning from Failure
Explanation: Some states face challenges during their performances, teaching them to handle setbacks gracefully and learn from the experience.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that it's okay to make mistakes and that failures are opportunities for growth and improvement.
Example Lesson: Celebrating Achievements
Explanation: At the end of the talent show, all participants are celebrated for their participation and effort, not just for winning.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of recognizing and appreciating their own and others' efforts and achievements, regardless of the outcome.