Agnes Parker... Girl in Progress
#1 in Agnes Parker Series
What’s inside...
Eleven-year-old Agnes Parker has always been your everyday girl. But this year, Agnes is determined to become a whole new person. Maybe not a whole new person exactly, but just a better version of the girl she's always been. Someone who's not such an easy target for bullygirls like Peggy Neidermeyer. Someone who is as cool and confident as her best friend, Prejean. Will the new Agnes Parker make it through a school year filled with new glasses, broken arms, and a cute new boy in school? As she starts in the sixth grade, Agnes faces challenges with her old best friend, a longtime bully, a wonderful new classmate and neighbor, and herself.
Character compass
Agnes Parker
Toby
Prejean
Peggy
Discussion points
How do you think Agnes feels when she faces challenges at school and with her friends? Can you relate to any of her feelings?
Agnes and her friends go through many changes. What are some ways they support each other? Have you ever helped a friend, or has a friend helped you in a similar way?
Why do you think Agnes keeps a journal? What benefits do you think she gains from it, and would you consider keeping a journal?
What do you think was the most important lesson Agnes learned throughout the book? How would you apply this lesson in your own life?
How does the author show that growing up can be both exciting and challenging? What are some examples from the book that highlight this?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Agnes’ experiences, validating their feelings and drawing parallels to their own life.
Highlight the importance of empathy by discussing how Agnes handles her relationships with her friends and family.
Discuss the significance of personal growth and resilience, focusing on how Agnes adapts to new situations and overcomes obstacles.
Use Agnes' journaling as a springboard to motivate your child to start a journal or diary, explaining how it can help them understand and manage their emotions.
Prioritize open-ended questions that prompt your child to think critically and reflect deeply on the themes of the book, fostering a deeper understanding and connection.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-Acceptance
Explanation: Agnes Parker learns to accept and embrace her unique qualities and personality traits, even when they differ from those around her.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by recognizing and celebrating their own individuality and understanding that being different is a strength, not a weakness.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Throughout her middle school challenges, Agnes displays resilience in navigating friendship, school pressures, and personal growth.
Real-World Application: This story equips children to handle their own challenges with resilience, teaching them to persevere through difficult situations in school or social settings.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Agnes demonstrates empathy by trying to understand her friends' perspectives and feelings, particularly during conflicts.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of empathy by considering others' feelings and views, helping them build more supportive and understanding relationships.
Example Lesson: The Value of Friendship
Explanation: The story highlights the ups and downs of friendships and shows how true friends support each other in times of need.
Real-World Application: This lesson reminds children of the importance of nurturing friendships and being a good friend, even during disagreements or challenges.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Change
Explanation: As Agnes transitions into adolescence, she shows courage in adapting to new situations and personal changes.
Real-World Application: Children learn to embrace and adapt to changes in their lives, whether it's moving to a new school, dealing with family dynamics, or growing up.