Everybody Else Does, Why Can't I?
#2 in The Diaries of a Teenager and Her Mother Series
on Goodreads (71)
What’s inside...
Since Jenny and her mum have been keeping a diary each, a year has passed. Jenny is now a vegetarian with a part-time job who goes on holiday with her friends. Needless to say, mother and daughter do not see eye-to-eye in any situation. Jeni, the charming protagonist of 'Padres... no, gracias', is almost sixteen years old. She loves going out with boys and chatting with her friends, Sandra and Cati, but at school, she is one of the last in her class and her failures lead to serious family discussions.
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt when they were left out? Have you ever felt the same way?
What could the main character have done differently in the story? What would you have done in their place?
Why is it important to be yourself, even when others are doing something different?
How do you think the story would change if it ended differently? Imagine a new ending and share it.
What did you learn from this book about making decisions and being true to yourself?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to convey the emotions of the characters, which can spark empathy and understanding in your child.
Pause at key moments in the story to ask your child how they think a character is feeling or what they might do next, encouraging them to think critically.
Relate the story to your child’s experiences by discussing similar situations they might have faced, which can make the conversation more personal and engaging.
Ask your child to draw a scene from the book where they felt the main character made an important decision, using art to deepen their comprehension and perspective.
After discussing the book, encourage your child to think of ways they can apply the main character’s lessons to their own life, reinforcing the book’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Peer Pressure Resistance
Explanation: The protagonist faces situations where they must decide whether to follow the crowd or stand by their personal beliefs. The story demonstrates the importance of making decisions based on one’s own values rather than succumbing to peer influence.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to trust their judgement and make choices that align with their values, even when faced with peer pressure at school or in social settings.
Example Lesson: Self-Acceptance
Explanation: Throughout the book, the protagonist learns to embrace their unique qualities and imperfections. This reinforces the idea that being different is not only acceptable but valuable.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to appreciate themselves as they are, promoting self-confidence and reducing anxiety about fitting in with others.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The protagonist encounters diverse characters, each with their own struggles and perspectives. Through these interactions, the protagonist learns to understand and empathize with others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by showing empathy towards their peers, fostering a more supportive and inclusive environment at school.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: As the story unfolds, the protagonist experiences the outcomes of their choices, learning that each decision has consequences.
Real-World Application: This helps children grasp the concept of cause and effect, encouraging them to think before they act and consider the potential outcomes of their actions.
Example Lesson: Importance of Honesty
Explanation: In several scenarios, the protagonist faces the dilemma of being truthful or deceitful. Choosing honesty often leads to positive resolutions.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of honesty in building trust and maintaining healthy relationships with friends and family.