Join In: Multiethnic Short Stories by Outstanding Writers for Young Adults
on Goodreads (51)
What’s inside...
Here are seventeen original short stories that reflect young adults' views on friendships and prejudice, expectations and disappointments, and connections and confrontations.
Age
12-15
Length
272 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What is one story from the book that resonated with you and why?
How do the characters' experiences in the stories differ from your own? Can you find any similarities?
What have you learned about other cultures and ethnicities from reading these stories?
Which character would you like to meet in real life and what would you ask them?
How do you think the stories would change if they took place in our hometown?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage open dialogue by sharing your own reactions to the stories. Demonstrate active listening by reflecting on your child’s responses and asking follow-up questions to delve deeper. Connect the themes of the book to real-world examples and current events to make the discussion relevant. Use the diversity of the characters and settings to explore new ideas and perspectives together, fostering a broader worldview. Emphasize the importance of empathy and understanding different cultures through the narratives.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: Through its collection of stories from various cultural backgrounds, the book demonstrates the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and value the diversity in their own classrooms and neighborhoods, enhancing social harmony and inclusion.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: The characters in the stories often face challenges or situations that are unfamiliar to others, teaching readers to see the world from multiple perspectives.
Real-World Application: This helps children develop empathy, enabling them to relate to the feelings and experiences of others in real life, thus becoming more considerate peers.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Many stories highlight characters overcoming obstacles or personal struggles, illustrating the theme of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn that perseverance is key to overcoming difficulties, a valuable lesson applicable in academic challenges or personal setbacks.
Example Lesson: Moral Courage
Explanation: Characters in some stories take stands for what they believe in, despite facing opposition or challenges.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to uphold their values and speak out against injustices, fostering a sense of moral responsibility and courage.
Example Lesson: Importance of Personal Identity
Explanation: Several stories focus on characters exploring or affirming their cultural or personal identity, emphasizing its importance.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and take pride in their own identities, fostering self-confidence and a robust sense of self.