What’s inside...
Seventeen-year-old Lulu Li looks forward to her last summer before college, but her plans shift when her childhood friend, Kite Xu, returns home from South Korea. Kite, who left in eighth grade to pursue a K-pop career and debuted in the group Karnival, is taking a break from his K-pop activities for mysterious reasons. Lulu attempts to rekindle their friendship, but as they bond, Kite's sister Connie warns her not to get too close. As Lulu grapples with her growing feelings for Kite, she questions whether a relationship between a K-pop star and a hometown girl could ever end well.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-17
Length
298 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What feelings did you experience when you saw the fireworks in the story?
How do you think the characters felt during the firework show?
What was your favorite part of the book and why?
Can you think of a time when you felt similar to any of the characters in the story?
What would you do if you were at a firework show like in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts as they relate to the story, reinforcing their emotional understanding. Utilize the vivid imagery of the book to spark imagination, asking them to describe their own firework show. Relate the story to personal experiences, enhancing their ability to connect with the characters, and promote empathy. Praise their responses to foster a positive reading environment, making them feel excited and valued throughout the discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'Fireworks,' the characters must collaborate to organize a spectacular fireworks show. They learn to communicate effectively and distribute tasks based on each other's strengths.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these principles during group activities at school or in sports, learning to work with others to achieve a common goal.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fears
Explanation: The story highlights a character who is initially afraid of the loud noises of fireworks but learns to overcome this fear with the support of friends.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to face their own fears and understand that with support from loved ones, they can overcome challenging situations.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Expression
Explanation: The characters use their creativity to design a unique fireworks display. This encourages self-expression through art.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to explore various forms of artistic expression, whether it be through drawing, painting, or crafting, fostering a sense of individuality and creativity.
Example Lesson: Importance of Community
Explanation: The fireworks event brings the whole community together, showcasing the importance of community spirit and collective enjoyment.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the value of participating in community activities and experiencing the joy and unity such events can bring.