I Am Fifteen - and I Don't Want to Die
#1 in I am Fifteen & I Don't Want to Die Series
on Goodreads (1,109)
What’s inside...
After hiding in a dismal cellar during the Nazi occupation, a Hungarian girl named Christine must flee from the Russians who now control her country. At only fifteen, she is caught in the middle of a war-torn city. Huddled in the cold, dark cellar of their bombed-out apartment building, Christine and her family listen in fear as the battle rages over their heads. They must get out of the city, but they face the challenge of where to go and how to escape. Amidst the horrors of war, Christine is learning some hard lessons about life and death as she struggles to stay alive.
Character compass
Christine Arnothy
Christine'S Father
Discussion points
How do you think Christine felt during the events described in the book and why?
What are some ways Christine showed resilience in difficult times?
If you were in Christine's situation, what would you have done differently, if anything?
What does this story teach us about the impact of war on individuals and families?
How can we apply the lessons from Christine's story to challenges we face today?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own reflections on the book to model thoughtful engagement. Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story, even if they are complex or difficult. Connect the themes of the book to your child’s own experiences to make the discussion more relatable. Offer reassurance and support as this book covers some intense topics, ensuring a safe space for open conversation. Highlight Christine’s strengths and ask your child to think about how they might use similar strengths in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, a young girl, navigates the challenges of war, showcasing her ability to cope with dire circumstances and persevere.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stay strong and keep striving forward, despite the challenges they encounter in their lives, whether it’s at school, in sports, or personal relationships.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: Throughout the narrative, the protagonist encounters various individuals each suffering from the consequences of war, which teaches her to understand and share the feelings of others.
Real-World Application: This story can help children understand the importance of being considerate and caring towards the feelings and experiences of their peers and others around them.
Example Lesson: Importance of hope
Explanation: Despite the bleak and often dangerous environment, the protagonist maintains a hopeful outlook on life, which provides her the strength to continue.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the significance of having hope and positivity, even when faced with difficult situations, helping them to remain motivated and optimistic.
Example Lesson: The impact of war on individuals and families
Explanation: The book vividly portrays how war affects the lives of people, particularly through the lens of the young protagonist and her family.
Real-World Application: It provides a foundation for children to learn about historical events and their profound impacts on human lives, fostering a deeper understanding of world history and empathy for those who experience such trials.