Forever This Summer
#2 of 2 in Love Like Sky Series
on Goodreads (129)
What’s inside...
The second book from critically acclaimed author Leslie C. Youngblood, about family, identity, and learning to stand up for what's right -- now in paperback! Georgie, along with her Mama and Peaches, move to Bogalusa, Louisiana where Mama grew up and Great Aunt Vie needs care. Georgie wants to help at the family diner, but faces obstacles and overprotectiveness from Mama. When Georgie befriends Markie, a foster kid with a limb difference, they embark on a quest to find Markie's mom, intertwining their histories and leading Georgie to uncover truths that could right past wrongs.
Character compass
Georgia (Georgie)
Markie
Peaches
Aunt Vie
Discussion points
What do you think Georgie learns about family and friendship over the summer?
How did the book make you feel when Georgie was trying to help her cousin?
Why do you think it's important to listen to the stories of our family members and community?
What would you have done differently if you were in Georgie’s place?
How do you think the secret garden plays a role in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions that allow your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story.
Discuss the significance of community and family support, drawing parallels to your own family experiences.
Encourage your child to talk about the emotions of the characters and relate them to their own experiences.
Talk about the importance of helping others and what it means in both the book and in real life.
Create a comfortable and calm reading environment that invites thoughtful conversation and reflection.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Forever This Summer,' the protagonist, Georgie, learns to understand and empathize with others' situations, especially her cousin's challenges and community struggles in Bogalusa.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to listen and understand their friends' and classmates' feelings and perspectives, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family and Community
Explanation: The story emphasizes strong family bonds and community support as Georgie spends her summer in Louisiana, navigating through personal and communal challenges.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to appreciate and rely on their family and community for support and guidance, reinforcing the idea of communal strength and unity.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Difficulties
Explanation: Throughout the book, Georgie shows bravery as she confronts complicated family dynamics and social issues, learning to speak up for what is right.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to be brave in facing their own challenges, whether it's at school, home, or with friends, promoting personal growth and resilience.
Example Lesson: Value of Honesty
Explanation: Georgie’s journey also highlights the importance of honesty in difficult situations, as she learns to communicate openly with her family and friends.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the significance of honesty in building trust and maintaining healthy relationships with those around them.