Hey, Kiddo
#1 of 1 in Hey, Kiddo Series
on Goodreads (34,429)
What’s inside...
In kindergarten, Jarrett Krosoczka's teacher asks him to draw his family, with a mommy and a daddy. But Jarrett's family is much more complicated than that. His mom is an addict, in and out of rehab, and in and out of Jarrett's life. His father is a mystery -- Jarrett doesn't know where to find him, or even what his name is. Jarrett lives with his grandparents -- two very loud, very loving, very opinionated people who had thought they were through with raising children until Jarrett came along. Jarrett goes through his childhood trying to make his non-normal life as normal as possible, finding a way to express himself through drawing even as so little is being said to him about what's going on. Only as a teenager can Jarrett begin to piece together the truth of his family, reckoning with his mother and tracking down his father. Hey, Kiddo is a profoundly important memoir about growing up in a family grappling with addiction, and finding the art that helps you survive.
Character compass
Jarrett J. Krosoczka
Shirley Krosoczka
Joe Krosoczka
Leslie
Discussion points
How did Jarrett's relationship with his grandparents influence his life and choices? Do you think family can shape who we become?
What are some ways Jarrett uses art to cope with his challenges? How do you express yourself when you feel strong emotions?
Why is it important to have someone you trust to talk to about your feelings, like Jarrett had his grandparents and friends?
How do Jarrett's experiences help you understand the lives of people who might be different from you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own reactions to the book and its characters to model open emotional expression. Ask questions that connect the story to your child's life, like comparing family dynamics or discussing how they handle personal challenges. Encourage your child to think critically about how the characters' decisions impacted their lives, fostering empathy and understanding. Lastly, provide a safe space for your child to express conflicting feelings they may have about the book’s events.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Jarrett, deals with a tumultuous family life and shows immense resilience despite the challenges.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of perseverance and overcoming obstacles, which can help them face their own personal challenges with courage.
Example Lesson: Understanding and empathy
Explanation: As readers learn about Jarrett’s struggles with his family, particularly his mother’s addiction, they gain insights into the complexities of human behavior and relationships.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to develop empathy and understanding towards others who may be experiencing difficulties, fostering a more compassionate community.
Example Lesson: The power of creative expression
Explanation: Jarrett uses art as a means to cope with his emotions and circumstances, demonstrating the therapeutic power of creative expression.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore their own forms of artistic expression, be it drawing, writing, or any other creative outlets as a healthy way to deal with emotions and stress.
Example Lesson: Importance of supportive relationships
Explanation: Despite the challenges, Jarrett benefits from supportive relationships with his grandparents and friends, which plays a crucial role in his development.
Real-World Application: This highlights to children the importance of fostering and cherishing supportive relationships in their own lives, which can provide emotional support and stability.
Example Lesson: Self-identity and personal growth
Explanation: Throughout the book, Jarrett embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning more about who he is and his place in the world despite the absence of his parents.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of self-discovery and personal growth, teaching them to be confident in their own identities and to pursue personal growth throughout life.