There's Nothing to Do on Mars
What’s inside...
When Davey Martin's family moves to Mars, he discovers that there's nothing to do--at least until he and his robot dog Polaris learn to seize the spirit of adventure. It's not until they've zipped around the planet on his flying scooter--climbing Martian 'trees,' digging up 'fossils,' dancing in Martian rain dances--that they discover a treasure that finally piques Davey's interest--a source of water on the red planet! Chris Gall's new picture book plays on the themes (and ironies) of a complaint parents have heard from their children a thousand 'There's nothing to do!' The book also offers a deeper lesson to our stationary, convenience-driven society: If you're creative and look carefully, you'll be amazed at what you find! This rollicking adventure for children comes from the pen of award-winning illustrator and author Chris Gall.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What would you do if you were the main character on Mars?
Why do you think the character feels there’s nothing to do on Mars?
How did the character’s perspective on Mars change by the end of the story?
What would you bring with you to Mars to make it more fun?
How did the friends the character made influence his adventures?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think creatively by asking them to imagine their own Martian adventure.
Highlight the transformation of the character’s feelings about Mars from boredom to excitement, prompting a discussion about how new experiences can be initially daunting but ultimately rewarding.
Discuss the importance of friendship and teamwork showcased in the book, and relate it to your child’s own experiences.
After reading, co-create a 'Mars Adventure' drawing or story with your child to extend the theme of exploration and creativity.
Use expressive read-aloud techniques, altering your tone to match the excitement as the character discovers the fun in his new surroundings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and resourcefulness
Explanation: The protagonist, bored with nothing to do, uses his imagination to create fun activities on Mars.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to use their imagination to entertain themselves and solve problems, even in seemingly dull situations.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: The child's adventure across Mars showcases the joy of exploring new places and learning about them.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be curious about the world around them, enhancing their knowledge and understanding of different environments.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Faced with the challenge of boredom, the protagonist invents various activities, demonstrating innovative thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this to overcoming challenges in school or in social settings by thinking of creative solutions.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Adjusting to a new and unfamiliar environment on Mars, the character shows adaptability by finding new ways to have fun.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of adapting to new circumstances, whether it’s moving to a new place or adjusting to changes at home or school.