Boys of Summer
#1 of 203 in OverDrive Read Series
on Goodreads (45)
What’s inside...
In 'Boys of Summer', an anthology edited by Steve Berman, talented authors explore the season's allure for gay teens, inspired by Walt Whitman's reference to a 'Mad, naked, Summer Night!'. The stories depict the romance of June, the raw heat of July, and the lingering fire of August, capturing moments of young love and adventure under the bright blue sky, where laughter at the beach offers respite from mundane summer jobs.
Discussion points
How did the characters' experiences during the summer change them? What did they learn about themselves?
What role do friendships play in the story? How do the characters support each other?
How does the setting of summer influence the events and emotions in the book?
If you could give advice to one of the characters, what would it be and why?
What was your favorite part of the book, and what emotions did it evoke in you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own favorite summer memories to set a relatable tone and encourage your child to open up about their thoughts on the book.
Ask your child to compare their personal experiences with those of the characters, fostering a deeper connection to the story and its themes.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative scenarios in the book, which can stimulate creative thinking and further discussion.
Highlight the growth of the characters throughout the book to help your child understand the concept of personal development and resilience.
Focus on the emotional aspects of the story, asking how various situations made them feel, to enhance empathy and emotional intelligence.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: Throughout 'Boys of Summer,' the characters participate in various team sports which emphasize the importance of working together to achieve common goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in school projects or local sports teams, learning to cooperate with peers to accomplish shared objectives.
Example Lesson: Overcoming adversity
Explanation: The book highlights the individual and collective challenges the boys face and how they navigate through them, teaching resilience.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to persevere through their own difficulties, whether they are academic challenges or personal obstacles.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: The narrative showcases deep bonds between the characters, emphasizing how friendships can provide emotional support and happiness.
Real-World Application: Children learn to nurture and value their friendships, understanding the importance of emotional support systems in their lives.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity
Explanation: As the boys come from diverse backgrounds, the story portrays how embracing differences enhances team strength and personal growth.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to appreciate and respect people from different backgrounds, promoting inclusivity in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of integrity
Explanation: The characters often face moral dilemmas and learn the importance of making the right choices even when it's difficult.
Real-World Application: It helps children understand the importance of honesty and ethics in building trust and respect in relationships.