Everything Sad Is Untrue:
on Goodreads (38,503)
What’s inside...
Khosrou, a boy who is called 'Daniel' at his middle school in Oklahoma, struggles to have his classmates believe the stories he tells about his Iranian heritage and family history. Despite facing skepticism and hostility in the classroom, Daniel shares tales that span centuries, from his family's escape from Iran to legends set in ancient cities and palaces. Through his storytelling, Daniel fights to assert his identity and the truth of his experiences, much like Scheherazade in a hostile setting. The book has received widespread acclaim, described as a modern masterpiece and a rare treasure, earning several starred reviews and being recognized as one of the best books of the year by numerous publications.
Age
12-15
Length
356 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Khosrou (Daniel) Nayeri
Ray
Dina
Sima
Discussion points
How did Khosrou’s stories from his past help him adjust to his new life in Oklahoma?
What do you think about the importance of storytelling in preserving culture and personal identity?
How do the different characters in the book show bravery or resilience?
What can we learn from Khosrou's perseverance in the face of challenges?
How does the book show the impact of kindness from others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Read the book together or take turns reading aloud to promote active listening and engagement with the text.
Provide some background context about the story's setting and the significance of storytelling in Persian culture to enhance understanding.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book, validating their opinions to promote open communication.
Connect the story to your child’s experiences—ask if they’ve ever felt like an outsider and how they managed those emotions.
Discuss the role of empathy by asking your child how they feel about Khosrou's experiences and what they might do in similar situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Khosrou, undergoes numerous challenges, from fleeing Iran to coping with life as a refugee. His perseverance through these hardships illustrates a powerful message of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to navigate their own struggles with tenacity and determination, understanding that challenges can be overcome with patience and courage.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards others
Explanation: Khosrou's narrations give readers a glimpse into the lives of people with different backgrounds and hardships, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding.
Real-World Application: This lesson can aid children in appreciating the various experiences of their peers, encouraging them to be more considerate and kind-hearted in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: The value of memory and storytelling
Explanation: The book underscores the importance of preserving memories through storytelling, as Khosrou recounts tales from his past to maintain his cultural identity.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to learn more about their family histories and the broader world, and to share their own stories as a way of expressing their identities and affecting others positively.
Example Lesson: Importance of cultural identity
Explanation: Khosrou clings to his Iranian culture throughout his journey, showcasing the importance of cultural roots and personal history.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore and take pride in their own cultures and histories, strengthening their sense of self and respect for diversity.
Example Lesson: The power of truth
Explanation: Despite various challenges, Khosrou remains dedicated to telling his truth through storytelling, emphasizing the impact of honesty and authenticity.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of being truthful in their expressions and interactions, fostering an environment of trust and integrity around them.