In the Key of Us
on Goodreads (662)
What’s inside...
From the author of the critically acclaimed novel For Black Girls Like Me, Mariama J. Lockington, comes In the Key of Us, a coming-of-age story that delves into the losses that threaten to break us and the friendships that make us whole again. Thirteen-year-old Andi, reeling from the loss of her mother, struggles to play her trumpet at a music camp, while Zora, a returning camper pressured to be a flute prodigy, secretly yearns to dance. As the only two Black girls at the camp, they face a sea of mostly white faces and find solace in their growing friendship. Together, they explore their loss, insecurities, and hopes, discovering the importance of embracing their true selves and each other during one life-changing summer. The novel is a lyrical ode to music, first love, and the transformative power of friendship.
Age
10-14
Length
368 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Andrea (Andi) Watson
Zora Amare
Discussion points
How do the different backgrounds of Andi and Zora influence their friendship in the story?
What does the music camp teach Andi and Zora about teamwork and collaboration?
Why do you think it's important for Andi and Zora to express their feelings through music?
How do Andi and Zora help each other overcome personal challenges?
In what ways do you think the story shows the impact of empathy and understanding in friendships?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before discussing, listen to some of the music types mentioned in the book together, creating a shared experience and deeper understanding of the story’s setting.
Ask open-ended questions that go beyond 'yes' or 'no' answers to encourage more in-depth conversation and critical thinking.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s own experiences, such as times when they had to collaborate with others or express themselves in challenging situations.
Use examples from the book to discuss the importance of diversity and how different backgrounds can lead to stronger connections.
Encourage your child to talk about their emotions and personal challenges, highlighting how the characters in the book handle similar feelings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy
Explanation: In 'In the Key of Us,' the characters Andi and Zora navigate complex emotions and circumstances, helping each other cope and understand their feelings. Their friendship demonstrates how empathy can deepen connections.
Real-World Application: Children can use empathy to understand their peers better and foster supportive friendships, helping them navigate school and social situations with compassion.
Example Lesson: Embracing diversity
Explanation: The story features characters from diverse backgrounds and experiences, highlighting the richness that diversity brings to relationships and communities.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be open and appreciative of differences among their peers, promoting inclusivity in their immediate environments.
Example Lesson: Resilience through challenges
Explanation: Both main characters face personal and familial challenges. Their journey showcases how resilience can be built through facing and overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children learn that it's okay to face difficulties and that persistence can lead them to overcome personal challenges and grow stronger.
Example Lesson: Value of artistic expression
Explanation: Music plays a central role in 'In the Key of Us', serving as a conduit for the characters to express their emotions and build relationships.
Real-World Application: This lesson can motivate children to explore and express their emotions through creative or artistic outlets, which can be a healthy way to deal with emotions and stress.
Example Lesson: Understanding grief and loss
Explanation: The characters in the book deal with loss and the accompanying emotional journey, providing a nuanced exploration of grief.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand their feelings of loss and find constructive ways to cope, knowing that they are not alone in their experiences.