Away with Words
on Goodreads (485)
What’s inside...
Set in a world where words appear physically when people speak, AWAY WITH WORDS explores the importance of communication and being there for those we love. Gala and her dad, Jordi, have just moved from home in Catalonia to a town in Scotland, to live with Jordi’s boyfriend Ryan. Gala doesn’t speak much English, and feels lost, lonely and unable to be her usual funny self. Until she befriends Natalie, a girl with selective mutism. The two girls find their own ways to communicate, which includes collecting other people's discarded words. They use the words to write anonymous supportive poems for their classmates, but then someone begins leaving nasty messages using the same method – and the girls are blamed. Gala has finally started adapting to her new life in Scotland and is determined to find the culprit. Can she and Natalie show the school who they really are? Runner-up at the Diverse Book Awards 2024. Shortlisted for the Yoto Carnegie Medal for Writing 2024, the Polari Children's & YA Prize 2024 and the UKLA Book Awards 2024.
Age
10-14
Length
288 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the way the characters in 'Away with Words' solved their problems? Can you think of other ways they might have handled their situations?
How did the story make you feel? Were there parts that made you happy, sad, or excited?
Which character did you relate to the most and why?
If you could add another adventure in the book, what would it be about?
How do you think the main character changed from the beginning of the book to the end?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about different parts of the story, highlighting both positive and negative emotions.
Ask your child to draw a scene from the book or a new adventure for the characters. This can help deepen their connection to the story and its characters.
Connect themes from the book to real-life experiences your child may have had, which can help them relate more deeply to the characters and their journeys.
Create a fun environment for discussion, like a mini book club, with snacks and comfortable seating to make the conversation more engaging.
End your discussion with a creative activity, like writing a letter to a favorite character or imagining a sequel to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The power of communication
Explanation: In 'Away with Words,' the protagonist learns to express herself and communicate effectively through various trials, ultimately improving her relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to articulate their feelings and thoughts clearly, helping them build stronger relationships with their peers and family members.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through interactions with diverse characters, the protagonist learns to understand different perspectives, fostering a sense of empathy.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be more open and understanding towards the feelings and viewpoints of others in their own life, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: The importance of resilience
Explanation: The protagonist faces numerous challenges but learns the importance of perseverance and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own challenges without giving up, understanding that persistence is often key to overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Creativity as a form of expression
Explanation: The story showcases how the protagonist uses her creative talents to express her emotions and connect with others.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to explore and embrace their own creative talents, whether it be through writing, drawing, or any other form of artistic expression.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: The protagonist’s journey highlights how true friends support and uplift each other, underscoring the value of genuine friendships.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to appreciate, nurture, and value their friendships, understanding the positive impact of supportive social relationships.