Kisses and Croissants
on Goodreads (18,844)
What’s inside...
Seventeen-year-old Mia, an American girl at an elite summer ballet program, has six weeks to achieve her dreams: to snag an audition with one of the world’s best ballet companies. But there’s more to Paris than ballet—especially when a charming French boy, Louis, wants to be her tour guide—and the pair discover the city has a few mysteries up its sleeve. In the vein of romances like Love and Gelato, this is the perfect summer adventure for anyone looking to get swept away in the City of Love.
Discussion points
How does Mia's passion for ballet influence her decisions throughout the story?
What role do family and heritage play in shaping Mia's identity and her journey in the book?
How do Mia's relationships with other characters, like Audrey and Louis, affect her understanding of friendship and love?
Can you relate to Mia's struggle between following her dreams and the expectations of others? How?
What did you learn about French culture and language through Mia's experiences in Paris?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Mia's journey, drawing parallels to their own experiences with hobbies or passion projects.
Discuss the significance of family history and traditions, sharing personal family stories that may resonate with themes in the book.
Explore the themes of friendship and love by reflecting on your child’s current relationships and the qualities that make a good friend or partner.
Utilize the French elements in the book as a fun educational tool, perhaps learning a few basic French phrases together.
Prompt your child to think about their own dreams and aspirations, discussing potential steps they can take to achieve them, inspired by Mia’s dedication and commitment.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Pursuing Passion
Explanation: The protagonist, Mia, demonstrates relentless dedication to her passion for ballet, which exemplifies the importance of pursuing what you love.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to engage deeply with their interests, whether it's art, sports, or any other field, fostering a sense of fulfillment and self-expression.
Example Lesson: Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: Set in Paris, the novel immerses readers in French culture, from language to cuisine, highlighting the benefits of cultural exposure and appreciation.
Real-World Application: Children learn to embrace and respect diverse cultures, enhancing their global awareness and interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Challenges
Explanation: Mia faces various obstacles in her journey, teaching readers about resilience and the importance of overcoming difficulties.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that setbacks are a natural part of any journey and that persistence is key to achieving goals.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family and Support Systems
Explanation: The support Mia receives from her family and friends plays a crucial role in her success, showcasing the importance of a supportive network.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and nurture relationships, understanding that success often involves collaboration and support.