Dandelion Clocks
on Goodreads (875)
What’s inside...
Dandelion Clocks by Rebecca Westcott Smith follows the journey of Liv as she navigates through her life from 'Thirteen Weeks Before' to 'Six Months After'. The story delves into Liv's passion for photography, her brother's adherence to rules, and their interactions with others, including Moronic Louise at school. As their mother's terminal illness progresses, Liv turns to her mother's childhood diaries for guidance, learning a new way to live. Despite the underlying sadness, the book is funny, touching, and heartwarming, keeping readers engaged and rooting for Liv and her mom.
Age
8-12
Length
255 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Olivia
Mum
Discussion points
How did you feel about Liv's journey and the way she handled her challenges?
What do you think the 'dandelion clocks' symbolize in the story?
Why is the relationship between Liv and her family important?
If you were Liv, how would you have reacted to the secrets she discovered?
How do you think Liv changed from the beginning to the end of the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the characters’ decisions and actions, validating their feelings and thoughts.
Discuss the symbolism of 'dandelion clocks,' and how time and memories play a pivotal role in our lives.
Point out how Liv’s relationships evolve through the story, asking your child about their thoughts on trust and family dynamics.
Explore the theme of personal growth and resilience with your child, asking them how they cope with their own challenges.
After reading, use a dandelion to have a fun activity of blowing the seeds away and discussing the impermanence and beauty of moments, just like in the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Coping with change and loss
Explanation: The protagonist, Liv, navigates through the emotional upheavals of losing her mother to illness and the subsequent changes in her family dynamics.
Real-World Application: Children can learn resilience and emotional adaptability in the face of personal loss or changing family situations.
Example Lesson: Understanding the value of memories
Explanation: Liv treasures the memories of her mother through photographs and diaries, reinforcing the importance of cherishing personal history.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to value their experiences and memories with loved ones as enduring connections.
Example Lesson: Empathy and emotional support
Explanation: As Liv deals with her emotions, her friends and family show various ways of offering support, illustrating how empathy and understanding are important.
Real-World Application: This serves as a model for children to support their peers sensitively and compassionately during tough times.
Example Lesson: Navigating sibling relationships
Explanation: Liv and her siblings experience typical conflicts but also moments of deep connection and mutual support over their shared loss.
Real-World Application: Children learn about the complexities and rewards of sibling bonds, promoting better handling of familial relationships.
Example Lesson: Personal growth through adversity
Explanation: Despite the challenges Liv faces, she emerges stronger and more mature, showing how adversity can foster personal development.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to view obstacles as opportunities for growth and to approach challenges with courage.