Layers
on Goodreads (4,532)
What’s inside...
Following the Eisner-award winning Brazen, Pénélope Bagieu pens her first autobiographical work in this hilarious and bitter sweet graphic memoir. Pénélope Bagieu never thought she'd publish a graphic memoir. But when she dusted off her old diaries (no, really—this book is based on her actual diaries), she found cringe-worthy, hilarious, and heartbreaking stories begging to be drawn. In Layers, Bagieu reflects on her childhood and teen years with her characteristic wit and unflinching honesty. The result is fifteen short stories about friendship, love, grief, and those awkward first steps toward adulthood.
Age
14-18
Length
144 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the different characters' stories make you feel?
What did you learn about how people can change over time?
Which character's story did you find most interesting and why?
What are some ways the characters showed courage in their lives?
How do you think the characters' lives were different from yours?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book to open up the discussion. Ask your child to pick their favorite illustration and explain what they like about it. Encourage your child to think about how the characters in the book handled challenges and relate it to their own experiences. Use the stories as a gateway to discuss broader topics like history, culture, and personal growth.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: The book illustrates the protagonist's ability to face challenges and persist despite difficulties, teaching children about the importance of determination and courage.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their academic and personal challenges without giving up, understanding that perseverance often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through the diverse characters and their stories, this book teaches children to understand and appreciate different perspectives and emotions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding in their interactions with peers, fostering a more inclusive and considerate community environment.
Example Lesson: The power of storytelling
Explanation: The book exemplifies how storytelling can be a powerful tool for expression and learning about different cultures and histories.
Real-World Application: Children can use storytelling as a method to express their emotions, share their experiences, and enhance their communication skills.
Example Lesson: Valuing diversity
Explanation: The various characters from different backgrounds highlight the richness that diversity brings to communities, emphasizing acceptance and respect.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to appreciate and celebrate the diverse world around them, promoting harmony and understanding in their everyday social interactions.
Example Lesson: Courage to challenge norms
Explanation: Characters in the book often go against societal norms to fight for what they believe is right, showcasing bravery and integrity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stand up for their beliefs and challenge injustices in their environments, helping them develop moral courage and ethical principles.