Thomas and the Runaway Pumpkins
Thomas the Tank Engine & friends Series
What’s inside...
It's Halloween and Thomas must help Farmer McColl transport a load of pumpkins, but they break free causing chaos. With help from his friends, Thomas solves the problem and learns about teamwork and responsibility.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Thomas wanted to catch the runaway pumpkins?
How do you think the other characters felt when the pumpkins were running away?
What would you have done if you were in Thomas' place?
How do the events in the story show the importance of teamwork?
What lesson can we learn from Thomas' adventure?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, introduce the concept of teamwork by discussing times when your family had to work together to accomplish a task.
While reading, ask your child to predict what might happen next, encouraging them to think critically about the storyline.
After reading, relate the story's themes to your child’s experiences, asking if they have ever faced a similar situation and how they handled it.
Use expressive voice modulation and facial expressions while reading to make the story more dynamic and engaging.
Encourage your child to draw or write about their favorite part of the book, deepening their connection to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Thomas is tasked with delivering pumpkins and faces challenges along the way. He learns to manage his duties diligently despite distractions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking charge of their own tasks such as homework or chores, understanding that handling responsibilities is part of everyday life.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: When Thomas encounters obstacles in his journey, he has to think quickly and devise solutions to ensure the pumpkins are delivered.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to think on their feet and creatively solve problems they face, whether in school projects or in resolving conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Despite multiple hurdles, Thomas does not give up. His determination sees him through to successfully complete his mission.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persisting through difficulties in order to achieve their goals, be it in academics, sports, or personal hobbies.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Thomas often relies on his friends for help and advice, demonstrating that teamwork is essential to overcome certain challenges.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to seek help when needed and value collaborative efforts in group activities at school or in play.