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A Bike Like Sergio's
Last updated Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Author: Maribeth Boelts
Illustrator: Noah Z. Jones
Date of Publication: 2016
ISBN: 0763666491
Grade Level: 1st (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Dec. 2025
Synopsis:
Ruben feels like he is the only kid without a bike. His friend Sergio reminds him that his birthday is coming, but Ruben knows that the kinds of birthday gifts he and Sergio receive are not the same. After all, when Ruben's mom sends him to Sonny's corner store for groceries, sometimes she doesn't have enough money for everything on the list.
So when Ruben sees a dollar bill fall out of someone's purse, he picks it up and puts it in his pocket. But when he gets home, he discovers it's not one dollar or even five or ten - it's a hundred-dollar bill, more than enough for a new bike just like Sergio's!
But what about the crossed-off groceries? And what about the woman who lost her money?
| Discussion topics for before reading: |
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Do you know how to ride a two-wheeler? When did you learn?
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Take a look at the front and back cover art, any ideas what the book is about?
Vocabulary:
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Crumpled-crushed to form creases and wrinkles
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Retrace- go back over (the same route that one has just taken).
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Blessed-Fortunate, lucky or deeply grateful for good things.
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| Discussion topics for during/after reading: |
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What would you have done if you were in Sergio’s shoes?
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What changed Sergio’s mind on how he should handle the money found?
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What is something you would like to save up for?
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| Craft ideas: |
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Design Your Dream Bike: Steps: 1. Provide paper, markers, and craft materials. 2. Kids can draw or collage their ideal bike, adding features like colors, baskets, or gadgets.
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Bike License Plate Craft: Steps: 1. Use cardboard or foam sheets to make mini license plates. 2.Let kids decorate with their name or a fun phrase. 3.Punch holes and add string so they can hang it on a real or pretend bike.
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| Special activities: |
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Community Helper Brainstorm: 1. Talk about ways to help friends or neighbors without spending money. 2.Create a “Kindness Poster” with ideas.
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*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions.
You can use them, but you don't have to use them.
You can expand upon them, or add your own twist.
Remember, though, that the focus of your time should
not be on the development and execution of a craft;
the focus should be on the read-aloud and the
enjoyment of the book!
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