All the Truth That's In Me
on Goodreads (15,257)
What’s inside...
Four years ago, Judith and her best friend disappeared from their small town of Roswell Station. Two years ago, only Judith returned, permanently mutilated, reviled and ignored by those who were once her friends and family. Unable to speak, Judith lives like a ghost in her own home, silently pouring out her thoughts to the boy who’s owned her heart as long as she can remember—even if he doesn’t know it—her childhood friend, Lucas. But when Roswell Station is attacked, long-buried secrets come to light, and Judith is forced to choose: continue to live in silence, or recover her voice, even if it means changing her world, and the lives around her, forever. This startlingly original novel will shock and disturb you; it will fill you with Judith’s passion and longing; and its mysteries will keep you feverishly turning the pages until the very last. Shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal.
Age
12-17
Length
274 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Judith Finch
Maria
Judith'S Mother
Lucas
Darrel Finch
Goody Pruett
Ezra Whiting
Discussion points
How do you think Judith's silence affects her relationships with others in the community?
What role does courage play in the story, and which actions or characters exemplified courage to you?
Why do you think the author chose to tell the story through Judith's perspective?
How does Judith's journey speak to the idea of finding one's voice and identity?
What are some ways the community could have supported Judith better?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on Judith’s character and her struggles, to create a safe space for open conversation. Emphasize the importance of understanding and empathy towards people who might seem different. Encourage your child to think about ways they can support their peers, drawing parallels to the book’s themes. Consider visiting historical sites or engaging in activities related to the time period of the book to deepen the contextual understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Judith, demonstrates resilience and strength as she overcomes her trauma and struggles to find her voice.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of perseverance and courage when facing personal challenges or setbacks.
Example Lesson: The power of finding one's voice
Explanation: Judith's journey to reclaim her voice and confront her past underscores the importance of self-expression and personal truth.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to communicate openly and assertively, emphasizing the value of honesty and authenticity in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Characters in the story develop deeper connections as they try to understand each other's pains and perspectives.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the significance of empathy in building strong, supportive relationships and fostering a compassionate community.
Example Lesson: The impact of community and belonging
Explanation: Judith's relationship with her community evolves as they come to accept her and her story, highlighting the importance of inclusion.
Real-World Application: Helps children appreciate the value of community support and the strength found in belonging to a group that accepts and supports each individual.