B Negative (Orca Soundings)
Orca Soundings Series
on Goodreads (203)
What’s inside...
Paddy loves his family, all except for his annoying stepfather Anthony. When they have a discussion about his future, Paddy overreacts and threatens to join the army. Unable to back down, he finds he is alienating everyone around him. And when he takes the physical exam and learns his blood type, his world starts to crumble and he starts to question everything he thought he knew.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-18
Length
136 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Paddy
Discussion points
How did the main character's journey make you feel, and why do you think those feelings emerged?
What do you think motivates the characters to act the way they do?
Can you relate to any of the struggles the characters faced? How would you handle similar situations?
What does the title 'B Negative' signify in the story, and how does it relate to the overall theme?
What did you learn from the resolutions of the conflicts in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own reflections on the story to set a comfortable tone for an open conversation.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book, validating their opinions to build confidence.
Link discussions to real-life examples your child might relate to, enhancing their understanding and empathy.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to delve deeper into critical thinking and personal connection.
Revisit the book's themes after some time to see if their views or feelings have evolved, fostering an ongoing dialogue.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'B Negative,' the protagonist Paddy gains insight into the challenges faced by his father, who is dealing with a serious illness. This journey encourages Paddy to develop a deeper sense of empathy and understanding towards his father's condition.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to recognize and appreciate the struggles and feelings of others around them, cultivating a compassionate and supportive environment.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Paddy confronts various obstacles not only related to his father's health but also personal dilemmas and conflicts that test his resolve.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of perseverance and staying strong during difficult times, reinforcing the idea that challenges can be overcome with determination and resilience.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Bonds
Explanation: The story highlights the closeness and support within Paddy's family as they navigate their father’s illness together, showcasing how vital family support is during tough times.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to cherish and lean on their family members for support, reinforcing familial ties and ensuring a supportive network in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Personal Growth through Experience
Explanation: Paddy’s experiences throughout the book lead him to mature and see the world in a more nuanced way, reflecting personal growth that comes from navigating life's challenges.
Real-World Application: This lesson imparts the value of learning from one's experiences and using them as stepping stones for personal development, encouraging children to embrace growth opportunities in their daily lives.