Boy Proof
on Goodreads (3,352)
What’s inside...
Egg, whose real name is Victoria, renamed herself after the heroine of her favorite sci-fi movie. She emulates her namesake by dressing similarly, shaving her head, and coloring her eyebrows. She prides herself on being a loner and has no interest in boys, until she meets Max, who is cool, friendly, and smart. Feeling alienated from everyone around her, Los Angeles high school senior and cinephile Victoria Jurgen hides behind the identity of a favorite movie character until an interesting new boy arrives at school and helps her realize that there is more to life than just the movies.
Age
13-14
Length
206 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Victoria 'egg' Jurgen
Max Carter
Victoria Kitchen
Discussion points
What do you think made Egg decide to change the way she interacts with others?
How do you think Egg's relationship with her father impacts her view on the world?
What lessons can we learn from Egg's journey about friendship and being true to oneself?
How does the setting in 'Boy Proof' influence the characters and the story?
If you were in Egg's shoes, how would you handle the challenges she faced?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express what they felt about Egg's behavior and decisions throughout the book. This can lead to a deeper understanding of the character's development.
Discuss the importance of empathy and understanding by asking your child how they think Egg felt during key moments in the story.
Connect the story to your child's experiences by asking if they have ever felt similar to Egg and how they handled it.
Use Egg's changes throughout the book to discuss the concept of growth and change, affirming that it's okay for them to evolve over time.
Highlight the relationship dynamics in the book to talk about the value of communication and understanding in friendships and family relationships.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Individuality
Explanation: The protagonist of 'Boy Proof' navigates through personal and social challenges while learning to accept and celebrate her unique qualities.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by recognizing and valuing their own distinct traits and those of others, fostering self-confidence and mutual respect.
Example Lesson: Importance of Communication
Explanation: Throughout the book, the main character evolves in her ability to express her feelings and thoughts, leading to better relationships.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that sharing their feelings can enhance relationships and resolve conflicts.
Example Lesson: Dealing with Change
Explanation: The story demonstrates how the central character copes with changes in her family and school environment, learning adaptability and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be flexible and resilient when faced with new situations or environments, helping them to thrive amidst change.
Example Lesson: The Value of Friendship
Explanation: In 'Boy Proof', relationships play a crucial role, especially how the protagonist learns the importance of supportive friendships.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to cultivate and cherish friendships, understanding the support and joy they bring.
Example Lesson: Self-Discovery Journey
Explanation: The character’s journey emphasizes self-discovery, ultimately leading her to a clearer understanding of her own identity and desires.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to explore their interests and passions, which is fundamental for personal growth and happiness.