Harry Sue
on Goodreads (192)
What’s inside...
Harry Sue Clotkin is tough. Her mom's in the slammer and she wants to get there too, as fast as possible, so they can be together. But it's not so easy to become a juvenile delinquent when you've got a tender heart. Harry Sue's got her hands full caring for the crumb-snatchers who take up her afternoons at the day care center, and spending time with her best friend Homer, a quadriplegic who sees life from a skylight in the roof of his tree house. When Harry Sue finds an unlikely confidante in her new art teacher, her ambitions toward a life of crime are sidelined as she comes to a deeper understanding about her past--and future. Sue Stauffacher has once again crafted a fast-paced middle-grade novel filled with quirky but lovable characters, a narrator impossible to ignore, a completely original plot, and a whole lot of redemption.
Age
8-12
Length
304 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Harriet 'Harry Sue'
Discussion points
How did Harry Sue's tough exterior help her in difficult situations? Can you think of a time when you had to be brave?
Harry Sue often talks about 'crunch time'. What does 'crunch time' mean to you, and how do you handle it?
Friendship is a key theme in the book. What do you think makes a good friend? How can you be a good friend to others?
The book touches on themes of loss and hope. How does Harry Sue cope with her losses, and what gives her hope?
What did you learn about trust and honesty from the characters' experiences?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the characters’ decisions, particularly during pivotal moments in the story.
Relate the themes of the book to real-life situations your child might encounter, enhancing their empathy and understanding.
Discuss the meaning of 'crunch time' and other phrases from the book to improve vocabulary and comprehension abilities.
Prompt your child to think about the outcomes of the story and ask how they might have written it differently based on the themes of friendship and resilience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Harry Sue faces difficult circumstances with her family situation, yet she remains determined and resilient throughout the story.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of perseverance and adaptability when confronted with challenges in their own lives, fostering a mindset that can handle adversity.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through interactions with other characters, Harry Sue demonstrates empathy, showing readers the importance of understanding others’ feelings and perspectives.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop the ability to empathize with peers and adults, enhancing their social interactions and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship
Explanation: The friendships Harry Sue forms are central to the narrative, illustrating how relationships can provide support and joy.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to value and nurture their friendships, understanding that true friends are vital for emotional support and companionship.
Example Lesson: Courage to speak up
Explanation: Harry Sue often stands up for what she believes is right, showing bravery in speaking up against injustices.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of advocating for themselves and others, promoting a sense of justice and moral integrity in their everyday actions.
Example Lesson: Hope and positive outlook
Explanation: Despite the challenges, Harry Sue maintains a hopeful outlook on life, which is contagious and uplifting for other characters.
Real-World Application: Instills in children the value of maintaining hope and a positive attitude, even in difficult times, which can lead to a happier, more fulfilling life.