The Time Machine Next Door: Rebellions and Super Boots
#2 of 4 in The Time Machine Next Door Series
What’s inside...
A page-turning, laugh-out-loud historical adventure by comedian and broadcaster Iszi Lawrence, perfect for fans of Horrible Histories. Time flies when you're having fun. But what does it do when you're not? Sunil and his not-very-normal next door neighbour Alex are back for another hilarious adventure.
Discussion points
How do you think having a time machine next door would change your daily life?
What would you do if you stumbled upon a pair of super boots? Where would you go first?
Which character did you relate to the most, and why?
If you could change one event in history, what would it be and why?
How do you think the characters felt during their adventures? Have you ever felt the same way?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story by asking what they would do in similar situations.
Discuss the consequences of the characters' actions to help your child understand the ethical dimensions of the story.
Use the book's scenarios as a fun way to introduce historical events and figures mentioned in the story.
Connect the story's themes to your child's everyday experiences to make the discussion more relatable and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: In the story, characters must collaborate to fix the time machine and navigate their adventures, highlighting how working together can solve complex problems.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of cooperating with others, whether in classroom projects or family activities, promoting better social interactions and collective problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Courage to face challenges
Explanation: The protagonists confront various obstacles during their time-traveling escapades, teaching readers about bravery in the face of uncertainty.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face their own fears and challenges, whether it's trying new activities, standing up for themselves, or asking for help when needed.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and consequences
Explanation: Characters must deal with the outcomes of their choices, particularly when meddling with time, showing how actions have consequences.
Real-World Application: This serves as a foundation for understanding accountability, helping kids grasp why it's important to think before acting and the impact of their decisions on others.
Example Lesson: Creativity and innovation
Explanation: The story’s use of a 'super boots' gadget encourages thinking outside the box to navigate through time and challenges.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to use their imagination and creativity to solve problems, which can be applied in creative arts, academic projects, or simply in finding new ways to play.
Example Lesson: Understanding diversity through history
Explanation: As characters travel to different historical periods, they encounter various cultures and societies, promoting an appreciation for diversity.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children respect and celebrate differences among people in their own lives, fostering inclusiveness and empathy from a young age.