I Am Not Alone
illustrations by
on Goodreads (225)
What’s inside...
Award-winning author Francisco X. Stork revisits some of the themes and ideas that made Marcelo in the Real World such an unforgettable novel. Alberto’s life isn't easy: He's an undocumented immigrant from Mexico who lives with his sister's abusive boyfriend—but he'd always accepted his place in the world. Until he starts hearing the voice of a man called Captain America, a voice that wants him to achieve more, no matter the cost. Grace has it all: She has a supportive boyfriend, she’s on track to be valedictorian, and she’s sure to go to the college of her dreams. Still, nothing feels right to her anymore after the divorce of her parents, and she feels she needs something more. When Alberto and Grace meet, they have an immediate and electric connection. But when Alberto is present at the scene of a terrible crime, he becomes a suspect. And with his developing schizophrenia, he’s not even sure he believes in his own innocence. Can Grace find a way to prove Alberto’s innocence to himself and the world? This is a page-turning thriller and a sensitive story about mental health, love, and community that will appeal to anyone who has struggled with their place in the world, from award-winning author Francisco X. Stork.
Age
11-12
Length
320 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt when they realized they were not alone? Can you share a time when you felt the same?
What does being 'not alone' mean to you? Who are the people that make you feel supported and loved?
Why is it important to have friends and family to support us? How do they help us in difficult times?
Can you think of a way you could help someone else feel 'not alone'?
How do you think the story would change if the main character was alone? What would be different?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the book’s themes. Listen actively and validate their feelings.
Discuss personal experiences related to the book's theme. Sharing your own stories can help your child feel more connected and understood.
Ask your child to draw a picture or write a short story about a time they felt supported by others, emphasizing the importance of not being alone.
Create a 'support tree' with your child, identifying people who care about and support them, reinforcing the message that they have a network of love and support.
Discuss the actions of various characters and ask your child how those actions made them feel. This helps develop empathy and a deeper understanding of relationships.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The story demonstrates empathy through characters who show understanding and compassion towards others' feelings and situations.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by recognizing emotions in others and offering comfort or help in real-life interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The narrative showcases characters facing challenges and overcoming them with determination and courage.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to persist in the face of difficulties in their own lives, whether in school or in personal endeavors.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: The book highlights the supportive and positive influence of friends, showing how they can help one overcome feelings of isolation.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the value of building and maintaining friendships, understanding how crucial they are for emotional support and happiness.
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance
Explanation: Characters in the book learn to accept and love themselves despite their flaws or differences.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children develop a healthy self-esteem and recognize their own unique strengths and qualities.
Example Lesson: Courage to Seek Help
Explanation: The story emphasizes the importance of seeking help when dealing with difficult emotions or situations, portrayed through characters who reach out for support.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to communicate their feelings to trusted adults or friends, learning that it is okay to ask for help when needed.