Eighth Grade Is Making Me Sick: Ginny Davis's Year in Stuff
#2 in The Fourteenth Goldfish Series
What’s inside...
Part graphic novel and part scrapbook, 'Eighth Grade Is Making Me Sick' by Jennifer Holm offers a unique and engaging peek into the life of eighth-grader Ginny. The book is filled with Post-its, journal entries, grocery lists, hand-drawn comic strips, and more, providing a relatable and often hilarious look at a tumultuous year in which Ginny navigates cheerleading tryouts, Virtual Vampire Vixens, family upheaval, and the complexities of young love. Meanwhile, 'Believe in the Unexpected' continues the adventures of Ellie and her grandpa, Melvin, who is trapped in the body of a fourteen-year-old. Their quest for the scientific breakthrough for eternal youth at a county science fair leads to unexpected and heartwarming results, reminding readers that life's greatest joys are often found in its surprises.
Character compass
Ginny Davis
Becky
Ginny'S Mother
Ginny'S Stepfather
Discussion points
What did Ginny learn about friendship throughout her eighth-grade year?
How do the different 'stuff' in the book—like texts and diary entries—help us understand Ginny's feelings?
What challenges did Ginny face, and how did she overcome them?
Can you relate to any of Ginny's experiences? How would you have handled similar situations?
What role did Ginny’s family play in her eighth-grade year?
Tip: Role play these questions
Initiate the discussion by sharing your own experiences from that age, making it easier for your child to open up. Encourage them to express their feelings about the book’s events and characters. Use the 'stuff' in the book as visual aids to deepen the conversation, asking how these items contribute to the story's emotion and narrative.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: Ginny Davis navigates through numerous challenges during her eighth-grade year, including family health issues and school pressures.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to handle their own difficulties with determination and positivity, understanding that challenges are a part of life.
Example Lesson: Importance of family support
Explanation: Throughout the book, Ginny's family plays a crucial role in helping her cope with her problems, providing a support system.
Real-World Application: This highlights the value of being there for family members and seeking their support during tough times, fostering strong family ties.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Ginny demonstrates adaptability by adjusting to the changes that come with her family's health and financial situations.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being flexible and adjusting to new situations, which is a vital skill in navigating life’s unpredictabilities.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Ginny learns to understand and empathize with her peers who may be facing their own challenges.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of empathy in understanding people's actions and being compassionate towards others.