The Wonderful Flight to the Mushroom Planet
#1 in Mushroom Planet Series
on Goodreads (2,575)
What’s inside...
In print since the 1950s, the Mushroom Planet series is back with a new design by illustrator Kevin Hawkes. Don't miss the adventures of Chuck and David, two boys who travel to the alien planet Basidium in their homemade spaceship. This timeless series is a classic that is sure to be read over and over again.
Discussion points
Why do you think Mr. Bass gave David and Chuck the challenge to build a spaceship?
How did David and Chuck's teamwork help them on their adventure to Basidium?
What do you think the main message or lesson of the story is?
How would you describe the Mushroom Planet? What makes it different from Earth?
If you could create your own planet, what would it be like and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine and describe their own version of a fantastic planet, fostering creativity and reinforcing details from the book.
Ask your child to relate the teamwork between David and Chuck to their own experiences working with friends or classmates.
Discuss the concept of responsibility, as shown through the boys' commitment to their mission, and connect it to responsibilities they have at home or school.
Explore the themes of curiosity and adventure by planning a 'Mushroom Planet' themed scavenger hunt that mirrors the exploratory nature of the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: In the book, the characters David and Chuck work together to build a spaceship and travel to the Mushroom Planet. Their success is a result of their combined efforts and cooperation.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of collaborating with others to achieve common goals, whether in school projects, sports teams, or family activities.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout their adventure, the protagonists face and overcome various challenges, using their ingenuity and critical thinking.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think creatively and persistently when faced with obstacles, enhancing their problem-solving skills in real life situations.
Example Lesson: Courage and Adventure
Explanation: David and Chuck's journey is filled with unknowns, yet they show bravery in pursuing their quest to the Mushroom Planet.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to embrace new experiences and face fears with courage, important for personal growth and learning.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The boys take on the responsibility of saving the Mushroom Planet's inhabitants, showing accountability for their actions.
Real-World Application: It teaches children the value of taking responsibility for their actions and the impact those actions can have on others.
Example Lesson: The Joy of Discovery
Explanation: The story celebrates the thrill of discovery as the characters explore new worlds and learn about the inhabitants of the Mushroom Planet.
Real-World Application: Encourages curiosity and excitement for learning, prompting children to explore and learn about the world around them.