Little Darlings
on Goodreads (4,828)
What’s inside...
Jacqueline Wilson's latest guaranteed bestseller shines the spotlight onto the crazy world of celebrity. Sunset lives a life of luxury with her beautiful ex-model mum, her world-famous ex-rocker dad, and two little celeb siblings. However, the red carpet life is overshadowed by her parents' constant arguments, media scrutiny, and a lack of genuine friendships. Meanwhile, Destiny, an only child living in a deteriorating estate, is brought up by her ill but loving mother who insists that Destiny's father is a famous rock star. When Destiny and Sunset meet under unexpected circumstances, they discover the companionship and understanding in each other that they had been missing in their lives.
Age
9-11
Length
378 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Destiny
Sunset
Danny Kilman
Discussion points
How do you think Destiny and Sunset felt when they first met each other?
What do you think makes a family? Is it always about being related by blood?
How can we show empathy to friends who might have different experiences from us?
Why do you think communication between Destiny and her mom was so challenging?
What would you have done differently if you were in Sunset's shoes?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to reflect on their own family dynamics and how they relate to those of Destiny and Sunset.
Use the contrasting lives of Destiny and Sunset to discuss the different socio-economic backgrounds and how they shape personal experiences.
Discuss the importance of empathy and understanding, citing specific scenes where characters displayed or lacked empathy.
Ask questions that prompt your child to think about how they communicate with family and friends, relating it to the communication barriers in the book.
Invite your child to think about conflict resolution by asking how they might solve a disagreement between characters in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy
Explanation: In 'Little Darlings,' the character Destiny learns to understand and feel the emotions of others, helping her to form meaningful connections.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to recognize the emotions of their peers and offer comfort or support, fostering stronger friendships.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: Throughout the book, Destiny faces various personal challenges but perseveres and grows stronger.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to not give up during tough times and to consider difficulties as opportunities for growth.
Example Lesson: The value of honesty
Explanation: Destiny realizes that being honest, though sometimes difficult, leads to trust and healthier relationships.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of telling the truth and how it builds trust within their own friendships and family relationships.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of diversity
Explanation: The story portrays characters from varied backgrounds, promoting a message of acceptance and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to embrace and celebrate differences among people, promoting inclusivity in their community.