It's A Tough Life
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
It's tough when you've got a baby sister who grabs all the attention at home. It's tough when your home-made Turbo-car-go-kart falls apart on its first run. But the toughest thing of all is when your very own dump is invaded by girls who just might be smarter than you. And when it's a tough life, that means war!
Age
8-9
Length
160 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was the biggest challenge the main character faced, and how did they overcome it?
How did the character's feelings change throughout the story?
Can you think of a time when you faced something difficult like the character did? What did you do?
What do you think is the most important lesson from this story?
If you could give advice to the main character, what would you tell them?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you discuss the book, validate your child's feelings and experiences, helping them connect personally with the character’s challenges.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts about the story by asking them how they feel about the character’s decisions and actions.
Offer a personal story from your own life that relates to the theme of overcoming challenges, this will deepen the connection and discussion.
Highlight the problem-solving aspects of the story and ask your child for alternative solutions to encourage critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: The protagonist in 'It's A Tough Life' faces various obstacles but learns to overcome them through determination and inner strength.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own challenges, such as difficulties in school or social settings, with a resilient mindset.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards others
Explanation: The story demonstrates the importance of understanding and sharing the feelings of others, as the characters support each other during tough times.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be considerate and supportive towards their peers and family members, fostering stronger relationships.
Example Lesson: The value of hard work
Explanation: Through the characters' efforts to improve their situations, the book illustrates that hard work is essential to achieving goals.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by staying diligent in their studies, hobbies, or household responsibilities, recognizing that their efforts can lead to success.
Example Lesson: Importance of hope
Explanation: Despite the hardships, the book conveys a message of maintaining hope and optimism.
Real-World Application: Children will understand the significance of staying positive even during difficult times, which can help them maintain mental and emotional well-being.