Ida, in Love and in Trouble
SeriesName
What’s inside...
The 'Ida, in Love and in Trouble' follows the journey of a young girl named Ida as she navigates the complexities of relationships and the challenges she faces in her personal life. The book delves into themes of love, self-discovery, and resilience. Before she became a warrior, Ida B. Wells was an incomparable flirt with a quick wit and a dream of becoming a renowned writer. The first child of newly freed parents who thrived in a community that pulsated with hope and possibility after the Civil War, Ida had a big heart, big ambitions, and even bigger challenges. How to be a good big sister when her beloved parents perish in a yellow fever epidemic? How to launch her career as a teacher? How to make and keep friends in a society that seems to have no place for a woman who speaks her own mind? And – always top of mind for Ida – how to find a love that will let her be the woman she dreams of becoming? Ahead of her time by decades, Ida B. Wells pioneered the field of investigative journalism with her powerful reporting on violence against African Americans. Her name became synonymous with courage and an unflinching demand for racial and gender equality. But there were so many facets to Ida Bell and critically acclaimed writer Veronica Chambers unspools her full and colorful life as Ida comes of age in the rapidly changing South, filled with lavish society dances and parties, swoon-worthy gentleman callers, and a world ripe for the taking.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
13-14
Length
400 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Ida felt when she faced those challenges, and what would you do in her situation?
Why do you think friendship is important in Ida's journey? Can you share a time when a friend helped you?
What do you think are the best qualities of Ida? Are there any qualities she has that you wish to develop?
How did Ida’s decisions affect those around her? What would you have done differently?
Ida learns a lot about love and trouble. What did you learn from her experiences?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the book, drawing parallels to their own lives. Focus on active listening and validate their thoughts, which helps build their confidence. Discuss the characters’ emotions and actions in detail to deepen understanding and empathy. Explore together how the themes of the book apply to everyday life and personal growth.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Ida learns to navigate complex emotions and relationships, fostering a deep understanding of the people around her.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to understand and respect the feelings and experiences of their peers.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, Ida faces various challenges that she overcomes through critical thinking and creativity.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to approach their own obstacles with confidence and innovation.
Example Lesson: Importance of Honest Communication
Explanation: Ida learns the value of expressing her thoughts and feelings clearly, which improves her relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to openly share their thoughts and feelings with family and friends, fostering stronger bonds.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to Change
Explanation: Ida experiences many changes and learns to adapt, showing resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of being flexible and embracing change in life, such as moving to a new place or changing schools.
Example Lesson: Strength in Vulnerability
Explanation: Ida discovers that being vulnerable doesn’t mean being weak, but rather opens paths to personal growth and closer relationships.
Real-World Application: Children learn that it's okay to ask for help and that doing so can lead to support and stronger connections with others.