A First Time for Everything
What’s inside...
A First Time for Everything is a middle grade graphic memoir by Dan Santat that explores his challenging middle school years and a transformative class trip to Europe. Despite being a well-behaved kid, Dan is bullied and feels invisible. His expectations are low when he's sent on the trip, but as he travels through France, Germany, Switzerland, and England, he experiences a series of firsts—including his first Fanta, first fondue, first bike theft from punk rockers, and first love—that change his perspective on life. This heartwarming and poignant memoir celebrates a universally challenging but life-changing time.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-14
Length
320 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was the first new thing the main character tried, and how did it make them feel?
Can you think of a time when you tried something new for the first time? How did you feel before and after?
Why is it important to keep trying new things, even if we might be scared at first?
How did the character's friends or family help them feel better about trying something new?
If you could try anything new tomorrow, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences by sharing your own stories of trying something new.
Ask your child how they think the story might change if it took place in a different setting or time.
Discuss the importance of being brave and trying new things, highlighting how it helps us grow.
Praise your child for times they have tried new activities and discuss the positive outcomes from those experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing New Experiences
Explanation: The story illustrates the protagonist trying various new activities for the first time, showing both excitement and natural hesitance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be open to new experiences, whether it's trying a new food, making a new friend, or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fears
Explanation: As the protagonist faces initial fears but eventually finds joy in new experiences, the narrative provides a comforting message about growth.
Real-World Application: This can teach children that it's okay to feel scared and that courage can lead to positive outcomes and personal growth.
Example Lesson: The Value of Curiosity
Explanation: The protagonist’s curious nature leads to discovery and learning throughout the book.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and explore their world, which enhances their learning and cognitive development.
Example Lesson: Learning from Mistakes
Explanation: The story shows that not every new experience goes perfectly, but the protagonist learns from each situation.
Real-World Application: Children will understand that making mistakes is a natural part of learning and trying new things, and it's important to learn and grow from them.
Example Lesson: Joy in Sharing Experiences
Explanation: The protagonist shares the journey of first experiences with friends, which multiplies the joy and lessons learned.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of sharing life's moments with others and how it can enhance their own enjoyment and understanding of experiences.