Breathing Fire (Orca Soundings)
#10 of 144 in Orca Soundings Series
on Goodreads (26)
What’s inside...
When Ally's mom dies, she is left with no family, no friends, and no future. After being placed in foster care at the age of fifteen with less than $200 to her name, Ally feels like she has nothing left to lose. When she meets Tate, a busking fire breather, she starts to envision a new life for herself as a street performer. Deciding to run away from her foster home, Ally quickly learns that her problems will follow her. As she navigates hiding her age, sleeping on the streets, and avoiding conflicts with other buskers, Ally discovers that there's more to being a fire-breathing busker than just avoiding getting burned.
Character compass
Alisha
Alisha'S Older Sister
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the main character to make the choices they did throughout the story?
How do you think the main character felt when faced with challenges? Have you ever felt the same way?
What lessons can we learn from the way the story unfolded?
If you could change one thing about the story, what would it be and why?
How do the friendships in the book compare to your own friendships?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts and feelings about the book to set a comfortable tone for the discussion. Encourage your child to express their ideas and feelings, even if they differ from yours. Highlight the importance of understanding and empathy by discussing the emotions and motivations of the characters. Use specific events or quotes from the book to guide your conversation and help your child draw connections. Finally, relate the story's themes or moral lessons to real-life situations that your child may encounter, enhancing both understanding and personal connection.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The protagonist demonstrates resilience as they navigate the challenges of their personal circumstances.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of perseverance and enduring tough situations which can be applied in overcoming personal obstacles in school or in social settings.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship
Explanation: The story highlights the role of supportive friendships in overcoming life's challenges.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to cultivate and value friendships, understanding how vital social support is in their lives.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: Characters in the book display empathy towards others' feelings and situations, emphasizing the importance of understanding and compassion.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be considerate of others’ emotions and circumstances, fostering a kinder peer environment.
Example Lesson: Facing consequences
Explanation: The book illustrates how choices have consequences, whether good or bad, and the responsibility that comes with them.
Real-World Application: Children learn about accountability and the importance of making wise decisions.
Example Lesson: Personal growth
Explanation: As the story progresses, the protagonist evolves, learning from experiences and becoming stronger.
Real-World Application: This imparts the idea that personal development is a continual process that is shaped by one’s experiences and actions.