Your Pal Fred
#1 of 3 in Your Pal Fred Series
What’s inside...
From Michael Rex, the bestselling author/illustrator of Fangbone! and Goodnight Goon, comes Your Pal Fred, a zany and hilarious graphic novel that celebrates the humanity inside all of us—even if you're a robot. In a brutal future world where only the savage survive, a life-size toy named Fred suddenly activates. Built to be a best buddy, Fred’s relentless kindness never fades, even in a world riddled with rudeness. Determined to make the world a better place, Fred sets out on a mission: to make the two most powerful, battle-hungry warlords, Lord Bonkers and Papa Mayhem, into friends. Despite the odds being against him, Fred’s unwavering optimism and kindness might just be the key to turning enemies into allies.
Discussion points
How do you think Fred felt when he started his new adventure? Can you relate to any of his feelings?
What would you have done if you were in Fred's shoes during his biggest challenge?
Fred met many different characters throughout the book. Who was your favorite and why?
What is the biggest lesson Fred learned? How can you apply this lesson to your own life?
If you could ask Fred one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story. Validate their feelings and share your own thoughts to deepen the discussion.
Use the characters' experiences as a bridge to discuss similar situations your child might encounter, fostering empathy and problem-solving skills.
Highlight the moral or lesson of the story, and relate it to real-life situations that your child faces to help them make meaningful connections.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or continuations of the story to encourage creative thinking and storytelling skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: The story illustrates how building friendships can lead to positive experiences and support through various adventures encountered by the characters.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to cultivate and cherish friendships in their daily interactions at school or during playtime, understanding that friends are crucial in both happy and challenging times.
Example Lesson: Embracing diversity
Explanation: Characters in the book come from varied backgrounds, showcasing how differences in appearance, interests, and cultures enrich their group dynamic.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to be open and accepting towards their peers who might seem different from them, promoting inclusivity in their own communities.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters encounter challenges that they must solve together, using their unique strengths.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of collaboration and thinking creatively to overcome obstacles in school projects or other aspects of life.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The protagonist takes on tasks that require managing responsibilities, and through trial and error, learns to handle them effectively.
Real-World Application: This aspect can help children understand the importance of being responsible, whether it's doing homework on time, taking care of a pet, or helping out at home.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: Despite facing setbacks, the characters keep trying and eventually reach their goals, showcasing the rewards of persistence.
Real-World Application: Children learn that not giving up, even when things get tough, is crucial to achieving one’s goals, be it in learning a new skill or improving in a sport.