The Wish in the Bottle
on Goodreads (9)
What’s inside...
Capturing what they believe to be an exotic glowing butterfly, Laurie, Lani, and Mark are astonished when they realize that they have actually captured feisty fairy queen Octavia, who promises to grant their wishes if she is returned home. Original.
Why read this book
- Sparks imagination with captivating adventure story.
- Features relatable, diverse characters for broad appeal.
- Encourages resilience and problem-solving skills.
- Ideal for shared parent-child reading moments.
Discussion points
What do you think inspired the main character to make a wish in the bottle?
How would you feel if you found a mysterious bottle with a message inside?
What did you learn about the power of hope from the story?
If you had a wish bottle, what would you wish for and why?
How do you think the story would change if it were set in a different place or time?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, validating their opinions and drawing parallels to their own experiences.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or twists in the story, enhancing their creativity and understanding of narrative structure.
Discuss the moral or message of the book and how it applies to real-life situations, helping your child connect literature to everyday experiences.
Create a 'wish bottle' craft project where your child can write their own wish, fostering a tangible connection with the book's theme.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness
Explanation: In 'The Wish in the Bottle,' the protagonist learns the value of being kind when their wish impacts those around them in positive ways.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by helping their friends or family, or by sharing their toys, fostering a sense of empathy and cooperation.
Example Lesson: Responsibility for one's choices
Explanation: The story highlights how the protagonist must deal with the outcomes of their wished choices, teaching that decisions have consequences.
Real-World Application: This lesson guides children to think carefully before acting and understand their personal responsibility in everyday decisions like choosing to complete homework or resolving conflicts.
Example Lesson: The power of hope and perseverance
Explanation: As the character in the book faces challenges in achieving their wish, they learn to remain hopeful and persistent.
Real-World Application: Children learn to stay determined and hopeful even when faced with difficulties in tasks such as learning new skills or solving complex problems at school.
Example Lesson: Understanding and valuing diversity
Explanation: The various characters in the book come from different backgrounds, and the protagonist learns to appreciate and embrace this diversity.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate the diverse world around them, promoting inclusivity and respect for others in their community and school.
Example Lesson: Importance of self-reflection and personal growth
Explanation: Through the journey, the protagonist reflects on their initial wish and realizes the importance of personal development over materialistic desires.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value personal growth and self-improvement, focusing on qualities like honesty, patience, and resilience over external rewards.