I Rise
on Goodreads (373)
What’s inside...
Fourteen-year-old Ayo is faced with a difficult decision after her mother, the founder of the civil rights movement 'See Us' tackling police brutality in Harlem, is shot by police and left in a coma. As tensions rise and protestors urge Ayo to become the new face of the movement, she must navigate her own grief, anger, and desires for a normal teenage life. Ayo seeks guidance from her ancestors and community as she grapples with the legacy of activism and racial injustice her mother left behind. This powerful novel addresses issues of inequality, systemic racism, police violence, and social justice while highlighting the strength and hope found in community.
Age
12-17
Length
320 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Avielle Lebeau
Nevaeh Lebeau
Discussion points
How did Isabella's journey in 'I Rise' inspire you? What qualities do you admire in her?
Isabella faces challenges but keeps pushing forward. Can you think of a time you faced something difficult and how you handled it?
Isabella’s story is set in a particular place and time. How do you think setting influences her decisions and actions?
The title 'I Rise' has a powerful meaning. What does it mean to rise in your own life, and how can you apply it?
What changes do you think Isabella would like to see in her world? How can you contribute to positive changes in your own world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use empathetic listening. Acknowledge your child's feelings and thoughts as they discuss their perspective on Isabella's journey and its challenges.
Connect themes from the book to real-life examples or family experiences that might resonate with your child to make the discussion more relatable.
Encourage critical thinking by asking your child to imagine alternative scenarios or outcomes in Isabella's journey, discussing why they think these changes could occur.
Facilitate a drawing or writing activity where your child can express what 'rising' means to them after reading the story.
Focus on the character traits exhibited by Isabella—such as resilience and courage—and discuss how these traits can be a guide for personal actions and decisions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist of 'I Rise' faces significant challenges but consistently demonstrates the will to overcome them. This representation showcases the power of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by tackling their own difficulties head-on, whether they are academic, social, or personal, understanding that persistence leads to success.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and community support
Explanation: In 'I Rise', the protagonist relies on the support and wisdom of their family and friends which plays a crucial role in their development and success.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to appreciate and seek support from their own networks, fostering a sense of belonging and security.
Example Lesson: Self-identity and empowerment
Explanation: The story emphasizes understanding and accepting oneself, regardless of the external challenges or pressures. This journey emboldens the protagonist, inspiring self-belief and confidence.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace their unique qualities and characteristics, promoting self-confidence and reducing peer pressure influence.
Example Lesson: Value of education
Explanation: The protagonist's progress is notably linked to their educational journey, underlining the importance of schooling and learning.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to take their education seriously, understanding its role as a foundational tool for their future success and personal development.
Example Lesson: Courage to make difficult choices
Explanation: Critical moments in 'I Rise' require the protagonist to make tough decisions that reflect their morals and values, reinforcing the book’s themes of integrity and courage.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face tough decisions with courage, prioritizing ethics and personal values.