It’S in My Genes: Addict by Blood, Addiction by Choice.
on Goodreads (6)
What’s inside...
It's in My Genes is a true story about a young girl named Jasmine who witnessed her mother's battle with alcoholism and faced her own addiction struggles. Growing up feeling hopeless and causing pain to her family, she dealt with self-harm and despair. Eventually, with determination, support, and help, Jasmine turned her life around, pursued her passion, and rebuilt her family bond. The book serves as an inspiration and a message of hope for those suffering from addiction, emphasizing the importance of seeking help.
Age
13-18
Length
168 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the characters' choices were influenced by their family history?
What do you think the main message of the book is about dealing with challenges?
Can you think of a time when you had to make a difficult choice? How did you handle it?
How do the characters' experiences in the book help us understand addiction?
What can we learn about seeking help and supporting each other from this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by summarizing the book together to ensure your child understands the plot and characters.
Be empathetic and patient, creating a safe space for open dialogue about the serious themes in the book.
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the book’s situations and characters.
Connect the themes of the book to real-life examples or situations in an age-appropriate way.
Highlight the importance of making informed choices and the impact of those choices on oneself and others.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the impact of choices
Explanation: The book explores the protagonist's journey through the challenges of inheriting genetic predispositions and making personal choices.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of decision-making and its long-term impacts on their lives, helping them to consider their actions carefully.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards those struggling with addiction
Explanation: Through the narrative, readers see the human side of addiction, fostering a deeper understanding of people's battles.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to cultivate empathy and compassion towards others, recognizing the struggles they face and offering support.
Example Lesson: The value of seeking help
Explanation: The protagonist's journey emphasizes the importance of seeking support from others, showcasing how asking for help can lead to positive changes.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of asking for help when faced with difficulties, promoting problem-solving and resilience.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: As the protagonist encounters and overcomes challenges, the theme of resilience is highlighted throughout the story.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to persevere through their own challenges, understanding that overcoming obstacles is a part of growth.
Example Lesson: The power of self-awareness
Explanation: The story delves into the importance of understanding oneself and one's predispositions in making better life choices.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of self-reflection and awareness in personal development and making informed decisions.