Boy21
on Goodreads (10,755)
What’s inside...
Basketball serves as an escape for Finley, who lives in the troubled town of Bellmont and takes care of his disabled grandfather. Known as 'White Rabbit' on his predominately black high school basketball team, he dreams of a better life with his girlfriend Erin. His world changes when he meets Russ, a former basketball prodigy who has faced tragedy and now goes by 'Boy21'. As their final year of high school unfolds, the unlikely friendship between Finley and Russ might just be what they both need to overcome their personal challenges.
Age
12-13
Length
250 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Finley Mcmanus
Russ 'Boy21' Allen
Erin
Coach
Discussion points
How does the friendship between Finley and Boy21 change throughout the story, and what do you think brought them closer?
What role do you think basketball plays in the lives of the characters? Is it just a game, or does it symbolize something more?
How do the characters deal with their personal challenges and losses? Can you relate to any of their coping mechanisms?
Why is it important to have someone to confide in during tough times, like Finley has Boy21 and vice versa?
What did you learn about bravery and resilience from Finley and Boy21’s experiences?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts on the book's themes such as friendship, loss, and resilience, to make your child feel more comfortable expressing their views.
Encourage your child to relate the challenges faced by the characters to their own life experiences. This helps in understanding the characters' decisions and growth.
Ask your child which character they felt the most connected to and why. This can lead to deeper discussions about the character’s traits and actions.
Discuss the significance of teamwork and support systems depicted in the book, and relate it to the importance of having supportive people in real life.
Highlight moments in the story where characters had to make tough choices, and ask your child what they would have done in the same situation. This helps develop empathy and moral reasoning.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Boy21', the characters Finley and Russ come from different backgrounds but form a strong bond through their mutual support for each other's troubles. The story showcases how empathy is crucial in understanding others' perspectives and struggles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the differences in others and offer emotional support in their real-life friendships and family relationships.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Finley faces various personal and family challenges but remains determined to overcome them. His resilience demonstrates the importance of inner strength and perseverance.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to remain steadfast and optimistic despite difficulties in school or in social settings.
Example Lesson: The Power of Silence
Explanation: Finley, the main character, often chooses silence as a way to cope with his environment and figure out his feelings. The book portrays silence not as a weakness but as a powerful tool for reflection and decision-making.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that taking moments of silence can help them manage their emotions and make thoughtful decisions in their own lives.
Example Lesson: The Impact of Friendship
Explanation: The relationship between Finley and Russ highlights how true friendship can provide comfort and stability, helping individuals to grow and face life's challenges.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of cultivating deep, meaningful friendships and being a supportive friend in turn.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Change
Explanation: As the characters undergo personal changes, the story emphasizes the importance of accepting and adapting to new situations or phases in life.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to embrace changes in their life, such as moving to a new school or welcoming a new family member, with positivity and openness.