Finding Home
What’s inside...
When Autumn becomes the secret voice of the advice column in her middle school newspaper, she faces a dilemma--how to give fair advice to everyone, including her friends, while keeping her identity a secret. Starting middle school is rough after her best friend moves away, leaving her to navigate making new friends who don't get along. When her secret identity as the advice columnist is threatened, Autumn must find her voice, her courage, and follow her heart, even when it's divided.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-10
Length
116 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the main character's journey to find a home? How did it make you feel?
Why do you think it's important for everyone to have a place they can call home?
How did the characters in the story help each other? Can you think of ways we help each other in our family?
What was your favorite part of the book, and why?
If you could change one thing in the story, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story by asking them how they would feel in similar situations.
Link the story's themes to real-life situations by discussing the importance of community and support in finding a place where one feels safe and loved.
Highlight the acts of kindness in the book and relate them to daily actions, asking your child to share moments where they felt helped or supported.
Discuss the choices made by characters and ask your child what they would have done differently, fostering critical thinking and empathy.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a scene from the book or to write a short letter to their favorite character, deepening their connection to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy
Explanation: Through the story's characters, children see the power of understanding and sharing the feelings of others.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by being considerate of their peers' emotions, fostering a supportive environment at home or in school.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist's journey teaches children that challenges can be overcome with determination and courage.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to persist through difficulties in their own lives, whether in solving tough academic problems or navigating social conflicts.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Friendship is portrayed as a steadfast, reliable source of support and joy throughout the book.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and nurture relationships, understanding the role of a friend as someone who supports and enriches their life.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of change
Explanation: As the characters adapt to new environments, children learn that change is a part of life and can lead to positive outcomes.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children adapt to changes such as moving to a new school or welcoming a new family member.