Pistes d'exploration

Write a new Traction Man adventure.

Design and create the box in which Traction Man is packed. Add text to the box, explaining what he can do.

Act out another Traction Man adventure.

Discuss action figures and what they can do. On a class chart, compile a list of characters and their super powers. 

Make a class list of the many adjectives and encouraging words Traction Man uses. Practise using them to encourage your friends and working partners.

Describe yourself as a superhero. What do you (or could you do) to help out at home and in class? Write about and illustrate your super powers.

Lester's Dreadful Sweaters

Mots-clés

Humour , Picture book , comic strips , creativity , gifts , superheroes , toys , wordplay

Commentaire descriptif

On Christmas morning, a young boy is thrilled to receive a brand new Traction Man “with dazzle-painted battle pants.” In a delightful send-up of advertising language, this funny book begs to be read aloud in a TV announcer’s voice. From the first words on the Traction Man box, “Warning: contains small parts and loud shirt. May cause choking if swallowed,” children will understand they are in for a rollicking satire that also celebrates imagination and the spirit of adventure. Traction Man’s adventures take him underwater with the breakfast dishes, and into the dirt of the back garden. He finds a trusty sidekick in the kitchen Scrubbing Brush, who saves him from the Poisonous Dishcloth. The lively and appealing illustrations employ strong outlines and bright colour to depict details of the boy’s real life, such as when Granny’s china becomes Traction Man’s “Supersonic Space-Cup and Saucer.” This is a surefire good time in a book, and offers an excellent opportunity for children to share their own imaginary adventures.