Let's Pretend This Never Happened (Dear Dumb Diary #1)
#1 of 12 in Dear Dumb Diary Series
on Goodreads (18,412)
What’s inside...
Read the hilarious, candid (and sometimes mean) diaries of Jamie Kelly, who promises that everything in her diary is true...or at least as true as it needs to be. In this book, Jamie contends with Angeline, the school's prettiest, most popular girl (who Jamie thinks is a goon!) and the impending visit of her troll-like little cousin. Will Jamie survive? Will she go mad? Will she send her mom's nasty casserole to starving children in Wheretheheckistan? You'll just have to read the first installment of Dear Dumb Diary to find out!
Character compass
Jamie Kelly
Isabella
Angeline
Discussion points
What do you think Jamie learned about herself by the end of the book?
How do Jamie’s diary entries help us understand her feelings? Can you relate to any of her experiences?
If you could give Jamie one piece of advice, what would it be and why?
What do you think about the way Jamie handles her problems? How would you handle similar situations?
How do the illustrations enhance or complement the story for you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their own daily experiences with Jamie’s, fostering a deeper personal connection with the book.
Discuss the importance of expressing feelings and how keeping a diary or journal might be beneficial.
Highlight the moments of humor in the book to keep the conversation light-hearted and engaging.
Ask your child to imagine and talk about what they would write in their diary if they had one, mirroring Jamie's style.
Encourage empathy by asking how they feel about the characters' actions and decisions throughout the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-expression and honesty
Explanation: The protagonist, Jamie, uses her diary to candidly express her thoughts and feelings. This outlet helps her navigate her emotions and situations.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to find healthy ways to express their emotions, such as journaling or talking with someone they trust.
Example Lesson: Understanding consequences of actions
Explanation: Throughout the book, Jamie’s actions, whether good or bad, lead to various consequences, making her reflect on her decisions.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of thinking before acting and the potential impact their choices can have on themselves and others.
Example Lesson: Empathy and perspective-taking
Explanation: Jamie often finds herself in the shoes of her peers, which teaches her to understand and respect different viewpoints.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of considering others' perspectives, promoting empathy and improving interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: Resilience in facing challenges
Explanation: Jamie encounters and overcomes personal and academic challenges, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to persevere through their own difficulties, understanding that overcoming obstacles is a part of growth.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, Jamie realizes the value of true friends who support and uplift her during tough times.
Real-World Application: Highlights the importance of nurturing genuine friendships and being a supportive friend in return.