Left Out Elizabeth (Sweet Valley Kids, No. 25)
#25 of 46 in Sweet Valley Twins Graphic Novels Series
on Goodreads (112)
What’s inside...
When she learns that Todd Wilkins will be joining her family on their ski trip, Elizabeth is overjoyed, but when they arrive on the slopes, Todd befriends another boy and soon Elizabeth feels left out. Elizabeth Wakefield can't wait for her family's first ski vacation, especially since her friend Todd Wilkins is going too. But when they arrive at the ski resort, Todd makes friends with a boy named Mark. Soon the boys are together almost all the time, and Elizabeth feels left out. When Todd asks her to come with him on a difficult ski trail, Elizabeth isn't sure what to do. She promised her parents she'd stay on the beginner trails, but she also wants to spend time with Todd. Will she break her promise and go with him down the steep and dangerous slope?
Character compass
Elizabeth Wakefield
Jessica Wakefield
Discussion points
How do you think Elizabeth felt when she was left out? Can you share a time you felt the same way?
What are some ways you could include someone who feels left out?
Why do you think it's important to understand other people's feelings?
How do you think the story would change if the characters acted differently towards Elizabeth?
What would you do if you were in Elizabeth’s shoes?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a gentle tone and keep the conversation casual. Help your child relate to Elizabeth by sharing your own experiences of feeling left out.
Encourage empathy by asking your child to think about how they would feel in Elizabeth's situation and what would make them feel better.
Discuss the importance of inclusivity and friendship. This can lead to understanding broader social skills.
Praise your child for thoughtful responses and encourage them by acknowledging the complexity of emotions involved in the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: In 'Left Out Elizabeth', Elizabeth feels isolated when her friends exclude her from their activities. This scenario shows the pain of being left out and the importance of understanding others' feelings.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize when someone feels excluded and make an effort to include them, fostering a more inclusive and caring environment in school and play.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Elizabeth faces her situation with courage and eventually finds a way to cope with feeling left out. Her resilience teaches children that they can overcome difficult social situations.
Real-World Application: Children learn to persist and find solutions in the face of social challenges, building their confidence and problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: The value of communication
Explanation: The resolution in the story comes about when Elizabeth communicates her feelings to her friends, emphasizing the importance of open communication in resolving conflicts.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to express their feelings and talk about their problems with friends and adults, which can help resolve misunderstandings and strengthen relationships.
Example Lesson: Self-worth
Explanation: Throughout her struggles, Elizabeth learns to value herself and her own company, even when she feels abandoned by her peers.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that their worth is not dependent on others' acceptance and that it's okay to be on their own at times. This promotes healthy self-esteem and independence.