Gabriela: American Girl: Girl of the Year, 2017
#1 in American Girl: Girl of the Year 2017 Series
on Goodreads (254)
What’s inside...
Gabby loves expressing herself — especially in the dance studio — but lately, poetry is becoming her art form of choice, and for good reason: Gabby struggles with stuttering, and spoken word poetry helps her speech flow more freely. Still, compared to how confident she feels on the dance floor, speaking up can be scary. When the city threatens to close her beloved community arts center, Gabby is determined to find a way to help. Can she harness the power of her words and rally her community to save Liberty Arts?
Why read this book
- Showcases creativity through poetry and dance.
- Highlights overcoming challenges with confidence.
- Encourages expression and perseverance.
- Ideal for enhancing communication skills.
Character compass
Gabriela Mcbride
Teagan
Tina Mcbride
Discussion points
How do Gabriela's experiences with stuttering make you feel? Can you relate to her challenges in any way?
Gabriela uses poetry to express herself. What are some ways you like to express your feelings?
Why do you think Gabriela is passionate about saving the community center? Have you ever felt strongly about a cause?
How does Gabriela's relationship with her family and friends help her overcome obstacles? Who are your go-to people when you need support?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Gabriela’s challenges and victories, establishing a safe space for sharing personal experiences.
Discuss the significance of having a creative outlet like poetry, and explore different ways your child might enjoy expressing themselves.
Highlight the theme of community and activism in the book. Use this opportunity to talk about the importance of being involved and making a difference in one's own community.
Talk about the support system Gabriela has throughout the book. Ask your child about the people they consider their support system and how they can strengthen those bonds.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Overcoming Shyness
Explanation: Gabriela uses poetry to express herself, helping her overcome her initial shyness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to use creative outlets like writing or art to communicate feelings they might otherwise keep to themselves.
Example Lesson: Importance of Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, Gabriela faces challenges with her speech impediment and efforts to save her community center but remains determined to overcome these obstacles.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence in achieving goals, regardless of the difficulties they encounter.
Example Lesson: Embracing Individuality
Explanation: Gabriela embraces her unique talents and learns to be proud of her abilities, inspiring others around her.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to appreciate their own unique traits and those of others, fostering a positive self-image and respect for diversity.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Community Engagement
Explanation: Gabriela collaborates with her friends and family to organize community efforts to save their local arts center.
Real-World Application: This illustrates the power of collective action and teaches children the importance of participating in community initiatives.