Max and Ivy Discover Magic brings together storytelling and hands-on play in one complete set. The 32-page illustrated storybook follows siblings Max and Ivy as they learn the secrets of magic and put on their very own show. The magic tricks included in the box are the exact same ones featured in the story, so children can read along and then try each trick themselves. It is an experience that makes reading feel purposeful and exciting.

How it helps

For children who find sitting with a book challenging, the promise of a real magic trick to practise afterwards gives reading a clear reward. The story and play elements work together: children are motivated to follow the text because they want to know what comes next, and performing the tricks builds fine motor skills, sequencing, and following multi-step instructions. The sense of achievement when a trick works is a genuine confidence boost.

Why it works in early years and primary settings

• Bridges reading and physical play. The Read, Play, Learn format is easy to build into a lesson or guided reading session, with a natural activity to follow that does not require additional resources.
• Accessible for mixed ability groups. The story is designed for ages 3 to 7, making it suitable across Reception and lower KS1, including for children with emerging reading skills or learning differences.
• Supports communication and language development. Children narrate and perform as they work through the tricks, naturally practising sequencing language, turn-taking, and verbal explanation.
• Easy to manage in a classroom. The tricks are designed to be simple enough for a young child to learn quickly after a demonstration, reducing the need for close adult support once the activity is underway.
• Strong value for intervention or group use. The set can be used as a reward resource, a quiet activity, or a focus for a small group, without the need for screens or additional equipment.

For home use

Parents will find this is an easy win at home. Children tend to want to practise the tricks repeatedly, which means they return to the book again and again. It makes a thoughtful gift for any child who is finding reading less than engaging, and works equally well for children who simply love magic.

• 32-page fully illustrated storybook following Max and Ivy as they learn and perform magic tricks.
• Read, Play, Learn format: the tricks in the box mirror the ones in the story, creating a hands-on reading experience.
• Includes four magic accessories: magic wand, zig-zag pencil trick, coin slider trick, and dice bomb trick.
• Full trick instructions included so children can learn each trick independently or with light adult support.
• Aimed at ages 3 to 7, suitable from early years through to lower KS1.
• Supports fine motor development, sequencing, and confidence through hands-on, multi-step play.
• Vibrant, high-quality packaging with colours matching the storybook illustrations.

• What age is this set suitable for?
  The set is designed for children aged 3 to 7. The tricks are simple enough for a 3-year-old to perform with a short demonstration, and the storybook is aimed at early readers in that same range.
• Do children need to be able to read to use this set?
  No. The storybook works equally well as a read-aloud shared with an adult or older child. The magic tricks can be enjoyed independently of the reading, though using both together gives the best experience.
• Are the tricks difficult to learn?
  The tricks have been designed to be manageable for young children. Most children pick them up after one or two practice runs, and the instructions are clear and easy to follow.
• Is this set appropriate for children with dyslexia or learning differences?
  Yes. The combination of story and hands-on activity is well suited to children who benefit from multi-sensory learning. The read-and-do format gives reading a practical purpose, which can help with motivation and engagement.
• Can this be used in a classroom or early years setting?
  It works well in a small group or one-to-one intervention context. It is not a whole-class consumable, but it makes a strong addition to a reading corner, nurture group, or guided reading resource bank.
• Is there more than one book in the Max and Ivy series?
  Yes. Max and Ivy is a series of Read, Play, Learn sets covering different themes, including dinosaurs, sports, and money. Each set follows the same format with a storybook and accompanying activity or play components.