Four Eyes: A Graphic Novel (Four Eyes #1)
#1 of 2 in Four Eyes Series
What’s inside...
From Rex Ogle and Dave Valeza, the dynamic duo behind Four Eyes, comes this second installment in the humorous and heartfelt middle-school memoir series. With his new pair of glasses, Rex is finally starting to see his way through middle school. But on the first day of seventh grade, he encounters a bump in the road - a big ooey, gooey bump right in the center of his forehead. And this giant zit is just the beginning of his problems. What follows next is an exhausting battle with stubborn acne, embarrassing body odor, and other awkward puberty developments. Still struggling with a home life fringing on the poverty line, Rex can't afford to buy the acne medication or deodorant he needs, and bullies are noticing Rex's uncomfortable transformation. On top of it all, things have gotten weird with his new girlfriend, Kennedy, making Rex feel like he can't do or say anything right. So far, seventh grade stinks!
Character compass
Rex Ogle
Mom
Discussion points
How do you think Alex felt when he started at a new school? Have you ever felt the same way?
What are some ways Alex tries to cope with his challenges at school? Can you relate to any of his coping strategies?
Why is it important to have friends who support and understand you, like Alex finds in his story?
What did you learn about how people might feel when they are bullied or treated differently?
How do you think the story would change if Alex reacted differently to his bullies?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own experiences related to themes in the book, such as starting at a new school or dealing with difficult situations, to make the conversation more relatable.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book’s events and characters, and validate their feelings as you listen.
Ask your child to think about what they might do in Alex’s place, fostering empathy and problem-solving skills.
Discuss the importance of friendship and support systems, asking your child about their own friendships and how they help each other.
Help your child connect the story to real life by discussing similar challenges they might face and how they can handle them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The protagonist, Enzo, faces challenges at school such as bullying and feeling out of place, which helps depict the emotional impact of these experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to understand and share the feelings of their peers who might be going through similar challenges, fostering a more compassionate community.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Despite the hardships Enzo encounters, he continues to navigate through his difficulties, showing determination and resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of perseverance and continuing to strive for their goals despite obstacles.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Support
Explanation: Enzo's relationship with his family, particularly his mother, emphasizes the importance of a supportive family during tough times.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of turning to family for support and the strength that can be found in familial bonds.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: The story illustrates how characters' actions, whether good or bad, have consequences that affect themselves and others.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of considering the consequences before acting, encouraging thoughtful decision-making.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Differences
Explanation: Enzo learns to navigate and accept his own differences and those of others around him, promoting inclusivity.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to embrace individual differences, which can lead to enriched interactions and reduced bullying.