And Both Were Young
What’s inside...
Unsophisticated, shy Flip Hunter, homesick in her Swiss boarding school, becomes more confident as a result of her secret romance with a French boy who must face his past to begin his future. Flip doesn't think she'll ever fit in at the Swiss boarding school. Besides being homesick for her father and Connecticut, she isn't sophisticated like the other girls, and discussions about boys leave her tongue-tied. Her happiest times are spent apart from the others, sketching or wandering in the mountains. But the day she's out walking alone and meets a French boy, Paul, things change for Flip. As their relationship grows, so does her self-confidence. Despite her newfound happiness, there are times when Paul seems a stranger to her. And since dating is forbidden except to seniors, their romance must remain a secret. With so many new feelings and obstacles to overcome in her present, can Flip help Paul to confront his troubled past and find a future?
Age
12-18
Length
256 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Philippa 'Flip' Hunter
Paul Laurens
Madame Perceval
Mademoiselle Dragonet
Discussion points
How did Flip's experiences at the boarding school help her grow and change?
What role does friendship play in the story, and why is it important for personal development?
How does the setting of post-war Europe influence the characters and their decisions?
Why do you think understanding different perspectives, like that of Paul and his experiences, is important?
In what ways do the characters show resilience in facing their challenges?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their own experiences at school with Flip’s, discussing any similarities or differences.
Discuss the importance of empathy by reflecting on how different characters in the book cope with their struggles.
Highlight the historical context of the story to provide a deeper understanding of the characters' actions and decisions.
Ask your child how they think the story would change if it was set in today's world, fostering critical thinking about societal changes and personal growth.
Use examples from the book to discuss the value of perseverance and friendship in overcoming life’s challenges.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Flip, overcomes numerous challenges after losing her mother and moving to a boarding school in Switzerland, demonstrating strength and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of adapting to changes and enduring difficult situations, helping them develop resilience in their own lives.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, Flip forms deep and supportive friendships that help her navigate her new environment and personal grief.
Real-World Application: Encouraging children to cultivate meaningful friendships can provide them with support and shared joy during both the good and challenging times.
Example Lesson: Self-discovery and personal growth
Explanation: Flip's journey in the book is also one of personal discovery, as she learns more about her own identity and capabilities.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to explore their own interests and strengths, learning to appreciate their unique qualities and abilities.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards others
Explanation: The story reveals different backgrounds and hardships of various characters, teaching the reader to be considerate and understanding of diverse life experiences.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children develop empathy, fostering a sense of understanding and kindness towards others in their community.
Example Lesson: The significance of courage
Explanation: Flip's decision to face her fears, both at school and in her personal life, highlights the importance of bravery.
Real-World Application: Children learn that courage is not the absence of fear but the determination to confront it, empowering them to tackle their own fears and challenges.