Zac the Taxman (Cecil and Friends)
on Goodreads (11)
What’s inside...
Zac is a dishonest tax collector who seeks revenge on those who teased him as a boy for being short, and never picked him for sports teams, until Jesus comes to Jericho and asks Zac to spend time with Him.
Why read this book
- Engaging, humorous story promotes early math skills.
- Encourages understanding of basic financial concepts.
- Characters model teamwork and communication.
- Supports cognitive development and problem-solving abilities.
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Zac The Taxman
Jesus
Discussion points
What are some ways Zac the Taxman helps his friends in the story?
How do you think the animals feel when Zac helps them out?
If you were Zac, how would you choose to help your friends?
Why do you think sharing and helping others is important?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone or someone helped you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by summarizing the book together, ensuring your child understands the plot. Use expressive questions to allow your child to think deeply about the story and its implications on kindness and generosity. Relate the scenarios in the book to real-life situations to make the conversation more applicable and engaging. Encourage your child to share personal experiences that align with the book’s themes, helping them connect with the story on a personal level. Lastly, emphasize the importance of the morals found in the story and discuss how these lessons can be applied daily.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Honesty
Explanation: Zac, the main character, learns the value of being truthful when he corrects a mistake he made on his taxes. His honesty is rewarded, fostering a positive outcome.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to always tell the truth, even when they make mistakes, and understand that honesty can lead to trust and positive resolutions.
Example Lesson: Understanding Responsibility
Explanation: Throughout the story, Zac learns about his civic duty to pay taxes and the role taxes play in society. The story illustrates his journey to become a responsible citizen.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn the importance of fulfilling their duties, whether it's doing household chores or completing school assignments, contributing positively to their community and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Value of Asking for Help
Explanation: When Zac encounters complexity in understanding tax rules, he seeks advice from his friends and a tax consultant. This action underlines the significance of seeking guidance when faced with difficulties.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that it is okay to ask for help when they don't understand something, whether at school or in other areas of their lives, promoting a learning and cooperative environment.
Example Lesson: Learning Financial Basics
Explanation: As Zac navigates his financial mistakes, children are indirectly introduced to basic financial concepts and the necessity of financial literacy.
Real-World Application: This can inspire interest in managing personal finances, understanding savings, and basic budgeting, which are crucial life skills.
Example Lesson: Impact of Contributing to Community
Explanation: The story highlights how taxes help in community development and the services they fund, like schools and parks, teaching Zac the impact of his contributions.
Real-World Application: Children can relate this to how their actions, like participating in community clean-ups or school events, contribute to the welfare of their surroundings.