What's For Dinner, Mr Gum?
#6 of 11 in Mr. Gum Series
What’s inside...
The side-splitting sixth installment of the Mr Gum series features Mr Gum's return, as he develops a newfound obsession with rancid kebabs covered in dirty grey sauce. His insatiable appetite leads to conflict, as the town of Lamonic Bibber prepares for war. Amidst the chaos, readers will follow Polly and her friends in their quest to save the town, uncover the identity of Thora Gruntwinkle, and witness bizarre events such as a gingerbread man driving through London, an irritating monkey causing trouble, and Friday O'Leary dozing off in a hedge. Will they manage to satisfy Mr Gum's hunger and restore peace to the town?
Discussion points
What do you think Mr. Gum would have done differently if Polly hadn't interfered with his plans?
How did the actions of the characters change the outcome of the story?
What lessons do you think Mr. Gum learned by the end of the book?
Why do you think friendship is important in 'What's For Dinner, Mr Gum?'
How would you help a friend like Polly did in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the characters' shoes and imagine how they would feel in similar situations.
Discuss the motivations behind each character's actions and ask your child what they would have done differently.
Highlight the value of teamwork and friendship portrayed in the story, and relate it to your child’s real-life experiences.
Ask your child to predict what could happen next if the story continued, fostering their imagination and storytelling skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness
Explanation: In the book, Mr. Gum's interactions with others highlight the consequences of unkind behavior and the benefits of kind actions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by practicing kindness in their interactions with peers and adults, promoting a positive and supportive environment.
Example Lesson: The value of community
Explanation: The characters in the story come together to solve problems, showing how teamwork and community spirit can achieve positive outcomes.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to value their own communities and contribute positively, whether it's at school, in sports teams, or in neighborhood activities.
Example Lesson: Responsibility for one’s actions
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters face the consequences of their actions, teaching readers about accountability.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to take responsibility for their actions, understand the impacts they have on others, and learn from their mistakes.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: The whimsical and imaginative scenarios in 'What's For Dinner, Mr Gum?' inspire creativity in young readers.
Real-World Application: This can be applied in a child's life by encouraging them to engage in creative activities such as drawing, storytelling, or problem-solving in inventive ways.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in adversity
Explanation: Characters in the book often face challenging situations but persevere to find solutions.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of not giving up in the face of difficulties, whether it’s completing a challenging homework assignment or resolving a conflict.