The Story of Matthew Buzzington
on Goodreads (47)
What’s inside...
Matthew Buzzington believes he has the ability to transform into a fly. He hopes to use this unique ability to overcome the school bully. This humorous story is written by the popular author of The Mr Gum books, and is published by Barrington Stoke, a company that focuses on creating books for reluctant, struggling, and dyslexic readers.
Age
7-10
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Matthew Buzzington
Discussion points
What do you think Matthew felt when he discovered he could turn into a fly?
How do you think being different affects Matthew and those around him?
What did you learn about friendship from the adventures of Matthew Buzzington?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Matthew's shoes, discussing how they might feel with such a unique ability.
Highlight the themes of acceptance and friendship by discussing the relationships that Matthew forms throughout the story.
Focus on the moments of challenge and triumph, prompting your child to talk about times they have faced and overcome hurdles.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing uniqueness
Explanation: Matthew Buzzington believes he can turn into a fly, showcasing his unique belief amidst his peers.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of embracing and expressing their individuality, even if it makes them different from others.
Example Lesson: Coping with change
Explanation: Matthew's family moves to a new town, and he must adjust to a new environment and make new friends.
Real-World Application: This teaches children how to adapt to new situations such as moving to a new school or city, reinforcing resilience.
Example Lesson: Value of imagination
Explanation: Matthew's adventures stem from his vibrant imagination, turning everyday situations into extraordinary ones.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to use their imagination to creatively solve problems and enhance their playtime experiences.
Example Lesson: Handling doubts and fears
Explanation: Matthew faces skepticism from his peers about his ability but learns to handle doubt.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand that it's normal to face doubts and fears and that they can overcome them with self-belief and perseverance.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the story, Matthew learns the value of making friends who accept and believe in him.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of building supportive and trusting relationships with their peers.