A Hero Ain't Nothin But a Sandwich
An Avon Flare Book Series
on Goodreads (953)
What’s inside...
The life of a thirteen-year-old Harlem youth on his way to becoming a confirmed heroin addict is seen from his viewpoint and from that of several people around him. A thirteen-year-old Black youth, on the verge of being hooked on heroin, expresses his ideas and emotions about ghetto life.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-13
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Benjie Johnson
Jimmy Lee
Rose Johnson
Grandmother (Mrs. Mary)
Nigeria Greene
Butler Craig
Discussion points
How did Benjie’s choices impact his life and relationships throughout the story?
What role do you think community and family support play in overcoming personal struggles?
In what ways do the different viewpoints in the book help us understand the complexity of Benjie’s situation?
What can we learn about courage and resilience from Benjie’s grandmother?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the conversation with a general question about the characters or plot to ease into deeper thematic discussions.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, reinforcing that all perspectives are valid.
Connect themes from the book to real-life situations or current events to make the discussion more relatable.
Highlight the importance of empathy by discussing the different challenges each character faces.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The impact of addiction
Explanation: The book portrays the struggles of a young teenager, Benjie, with heroin addiction, showing the harsh realities and challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of making healthy choices.
Example Lesson: The power of support and understanding
Explanation: Benjie’s journey highlights how crucial family and community support is in overcoming personal difficulties.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of supporting friends or family members who are facing challenges and the value of empathy.
Example Lesson: Taking responsibility for one’s actions
Explanation: As the protagonist confronts his addiction, the theme of personal responsibility emerges strongly throughout the story.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to take responsibility for their actions and understand the consequences of their decisions.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, Benjie keeps trying to recover, showcasing resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: It teaches children the importance of perseverance and courage when facing difficult situations in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Understanding and addressing societal issues
Explanation: The book does not shy away from discussing systemic issues like poverty and racism, which affect the characters' lives.
Real-World Application: Children can gain awareness of broader societal issues and learn the importance of compassion and activism in addressing injustices.