As Ally pointed out, if Jack hadn’t been drawing in the back of the classroom instead of paying attention, he never would have ended up at the Moonshadow. But, drawing benefits Jack in more ways than that–and it can benefit us as well!
Art can be a career or a recreational activity. It can help develop fine motor skills, and it can help us learn more about things by looking closely at the details of the world around us. While it is not recommended to use drawing to avoid listening when you should be, there are countless other times to draw–such as at this book club meeting!
Here is a fun way you can make drawing into a group activity. Draw a squiggly line on a piece of paper. It doesn’t have to be anything special. Now photocopy this so you have enough for each student. In honor of Jack and his love of drawing aliens, monsters and wizards (page 9), have each student draw an alien using the same squiggle. Meet back as a group and see how each kid used the line in a different way. In some it might be the body of the alien, while others may have used it for hair or part of the nose.
Our local libraries have many drawing books for kids, and the internet is full of drawing lessons as well. Here are a few suggestions:
- Draw 50 Aliens by Lee J Ames
- 1-2-3 Draw Cartoon Aliens and Space Stuff by Steve Barr
- Draw: Alien Fantasies by Damon J. Reinagle
Bonus suggestion for home – following in Jack’s footsteps
These days, somewhat overweight kids like Jack are becoming more common. Jack set a wonderful example by learning to enjoy a physical activity which, in turn, helped his body. He didn’t arrive at the Moonshadow with the intention of losing weight, and he didn’t start running or lifting weights to accomplish that goal either. He just met a new friend and tried something new.
Of course everyone who starts a new exercise program needs to make sure they are in the proper health to do so, but then follow in Jack’s footsteps (literally) and try something new! It is even better to have a buddy to run with like Jack had, so ask a friend.
Here is a link to a fun running log you can print up to keep track of your miles:
Feel free to drop me a line at contact@nationalhomeschoolbookaward.com if you have questions, comments or just need moral support while getting your book club started!
Or, join the discussion and post your comments or questions on my Facebook page, Valerie the Book Club Lady, at:
~ Valerie the Book Club Lady
Next week, look for Every Soul a Star #4 – Snack!