Just Shy of Ordinary
on Goodreads (326)
What’s inside...
Thirteen-year-old Shai is an expert problem-solver who has always figured things out independently. However, they struggle with a hair-picking habit that began when their mom lost her job, they moved in with family friends, and the world faced a pandemic lockdown. As life starts returning to a 'new normal,' Shai hopes the stress causing their habit will disappear. After learning that routines can reduce anxiety, Shai decides to establish a new routine by attending public school. An unexpected academic evaluation puts them in 9th grade instead of 8th, triggering unforeseen challenges. This situation forces Shai to adapt and embrace life's unpredictability, realizing that not everything can be planned.
Age
8-12
Length
384 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the main character feels when they're trying to fit in? Can you relate to their feelings?
What are some ways the characters in the book showed kindness or understanding to each other?
Why is it important to appreciate what makes us different from others?
What would you do if you were in the main character's situation? How would you handle the challenges they faced?
What did you learn from the story that you can apply in your own life or at school?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you discuss the book, make sure to listen actively to your child’s responses, showing empathy and understanding to their perspectives and feelings.
Relate instances from the book to real-life situations your child might face, making the discussion more relevant and impactful.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and ideas about the story by asking follow-up questions that prompt deeper thinking.
Highlight the moral and lessons from the story, and discuss how these lessons can be applied in daily interactions with others.
Praise your child’s insights and responses, boosting their confidence and encouraging a love for reading and discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: The story revolves around characters from various backgrounds and personalities, illustrating how differences enrich our lives.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and celebrate the uniqueness of each individual they encounter in school or playgrounds.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: The protagonist learns that true friendship is about understanding and supporting one another despite flaws or differences.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to build strong, supportive relationships with their peers, nurturing empathy and cooperation.
Example Lesson: Courage to Be Yourself
Explanation: The characters in the book often face situations where they must choose to be true to themselves, despite fear of judgment or failure.
Real-World Application: Kids are motivated to express their own opinions and follow their interests, which is crucial for their self-esteem and personal development.
Example Lesson: Perseverance Through Challenges
Explanation: As the characters tackle various challenges, they learn the importance of persistence and resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of perseverance in overcoming obstacles in schoolwork or personal goals.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters come together to solve conflicts and dilemmas using teamwork and creativity.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these problem-solving skills in group tasks or difficult situations in their lives, promoting critical thinking and collaboration.