Goodbye, Charley
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
In 1943, twelve-year-old Celie's father brings home a rhesus monkey, Charley, that helps her deal with various challenges brought by the war in Gloucester, Massachusetts. As Celie navigates her evolving relationships with her family and neighbors, including the irritating new neighbor Joey Bentley, her mother's new job at a warship yard, and managing Charley's wild nature, she learns valuable lessons about friendship, family, and love. This tender novel, inspired by the author's mother's experiences, beautifully captures the essence of relationships and the impact of war on a young girl's life.
Age
8-12
Length
176 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What feelings did you experience while reading about Charley's journey?
Can you think of a time when you had to say goodbye to someone or something? What was that like for you?
What does the story teach us about handling difficult emotions or changes?
How did the characters in the book support each other? Can you think of ways we can support each other during tough times?
What are some memories you would like to keep with you forever, just like the characters in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a comfortable and quiet reading environment to make the discussion feel safe and intimate.
Show genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings, and share your own experiences with goodbyes to help them open up.
Use the questions to guide the conversation, but allow your child to express themselves freely and steer the discussion according to what resonates most with them.
Encourage them to draw or write about a personal experience with saying goodbye, linking it to the story’s themes to deepen their understanding and emotional connection.
Acknowledge and validate their feelings, emphasizing that it’s okay to feel sad or nervous about goodbyes, just like Charley.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Coping with Loss
Explanation: The story tenderly depicts the protagonist coming to terms with the death of their pet, Charley, which sensitively introduces children to the concept of loss.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by recognizing and expressing their feelings during moments of loss, whether it's a pet, a toy, or moving away from friends.
Example Lesson: Acceptance and Healing
Explanation: The book illustrates the journey through grief, capturing the eventual acceptance and emotional healing, offering a hopeful perspective.
Real-World Application: This story will help children learn to embrace healing over time, understanding that it's okay to feel better and continue enjoying life after a loss.
Example Lesson: Value of Memories
Explanation: Through the protagonist’s reflections on fond memories with Charley, the book emphasizes the importance of cherishing good memories with loved ones.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to cherish and recount happy memories, which can serve as a comfort and a tool for emotional resilience in tough times.
Example Lesson: Empathy Towards Others
Explanation: As readers see the protagonist's struggle and ultimate healing, they learn to empathize with those who are grieving.
Real-World Application: Kids can better understand and be compassionate towards friends or family members experiencing a loss, fostering a supportive community.
Example Lesson: Sharing Feelings
Explanation: The protagonist shares feelings of sadness with family and friends, demonstrating the importance of expressing emotions and not bottling them up.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to openly communicate their feelings with trusted individuals, promoting emotional health and strong relationships.