Firegirl
#1 in Firegirl Series
on Goodreads (9,019)
What’s inside...
A middle-school boy named Tom develops a transformative friendship with a girl named Jessica, the firegirl of the title, who comes into the seventh-grade classroom. Jessica, horribly and disfiguringly burned in a car accident, is a powerful character who inspires both respect and fear from her classmates while battling loneliness. From the moment Mrs. Tracy introduces Jessica and her situation, life changes for Tom and his classmates as they learn about her injuries and her bravery. Despite her appearance and the initial fear she evokes, Tom forms a friendship with Jessica that profoundly changes his perspective on life. Tony Abbott, the author, highlights the impact of small gestures on someone's life through this powerful narrative.
Character compass
Tom Bender
Jessica Feeney
Sister Margaret
Jeff Hicks
Discussion points
How did Jessica's arrival change the dynamics in the classroom, and what does that teach us about acceptance and empathy?
Tom often struggles with his own insecurities and fears. Can you relate to his feelings? How do you deal with similar emotions?
What role does friendship play in the book? Discuss how Tom and Jeff's relationship evolves.
The theme of appearance versus reality is prominent in 'Firegirl.' How does this theme show itself in the characters’ interactions?
How do you think the story would change if it were told from Jessica’s perspective?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book, affirming that all perspectives are valid.
Draw parallels between the characters' experiences and your child’s daily life to make concepts like empathy more relatable.
Ask your child to think about what they would do in Tom’s or Jessica’s shoes to foster critical thinking and moral reasoning.
Make a habit of pausing at pivotal moments in the story to predict outcomes, enhancing engagement and comprehension.
After finishing the book, engage in a creative activity like drawing a favorite scene, which can help solidify the themes discussed.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: In 'Firegirl,' the protagonist Tom learns to empathize with Jessica, a new student with severe burn injuries. His initial discomfort and curiosity evolve into a deeper understanding and compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to appreciate and empathize with peers who may appear different or face unique challenges, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Jessica’s strength and bravery in dealing with her injuries and the reactions of her classmates provide a powerful example of resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to face their own challenges with bravery and to understand that adversity can be a catalyst for personal growth and strength.
Example Lesson: The impact of kindness
Explanation: Tom’s small acts of kindness, like talking to Jessica and understanding her story, make a significant difference in her life and his.
Real-World Application: Children learn that their actions, however small, have a profound impact on others and that kindness can significantly improve someone's day or even life.
Example Lesson: Acceptance and friendship
Explanation: As Tom and his classmates interact more with Jessica, they move from fear and avoidance to acceptance and friendship, showing the power of giving someone a chance.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of being open to friendships with all kinds of people, regardless of their outward appearance or circumstances.