Breaking the Fall (Thoroughbred Series #67)
#67 of 72 in Thoroughbred Series
on Goodreads (155)
What’s inside...
After being injured in a track accident, Christina reluctantly leaves the training of her beloved Star to her cousin Melanie, a situation that threatens to ruin the girls' relationship. As Christina faces a prolonged recovery, she must navigate the challenges of maintaining her racing career and her friendship with Melanie. The cousins struggle with their differences as they work for Star's sake, leaving Christina to ponder her future in racing during her healing process.
Discussion points
How did the characters' choices impact their relationships with others in the story?
What did you learn about perseverance and resilience from the main character?
Why do you think teamwork was important in the story? Can you give an example?
How did the characters grow or change throughout the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions that allow your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story.
Connect the themes of the book to your child’s own experiences to deepen their understanding.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios to foster creativity and critical thinking.
Discuss the motivations behind characters' actions to enhance empathy and perspective-taking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: In 'Breaking the Fall', the protagonist faces various setbacks but consistently demonstrates perseverance and determination.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace challenges in their everyday lives, understanding that persistence is key to overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: The characters in the book often work together to solve problems, illustrating the value of collaborating with others to achieve common goals.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to participate in group activities and learn the significance of cooperation and mutual support in school projects or sports.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters show compassion and empathy towards each other's situations, teaching the reader about the importance of understanding different perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing empathy towards their peers, which can lead to stronger friendships and better social interactions.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Characters in the story take on responsibilities and learn to manage them effectively, highlighting the importance of being reliable and accountable.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the value of being responsible for their tasks, such as homework or chores, and the impact it has on their family and community.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: The protagonist encounters situations that require courage to confront fears, reinforcing the message that bravery is not the absence of fear but the triumph over it.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to face their own fears and anxieties, whether it's trying out for a team, performing in a school play, or standing up for what's right.