Looking for Alibrandi
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What’s inside...
During her senior year at a Catholic school in Sydney, Australia, seventeen-year-old Josie meets and contends with the father she has never known. Caught between the values of her Italian grandmother, her mom's wisdom, and confusing romantic interests, Josie embarks on a transformative journey. Throughout the year, she falls in love, uncovers family secrets, and ultimately finds personal freedom. This novel, full of depth and humor, won several Australian literary awards and was adapted into a film.
Age
12-17
Length
256 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Josephine Alibrandi
Jacob Coote
John Barton
Katia Alibrandi
Christina Alibrandi
Michael Andretti
Discussion points
How does Josie Alibrandi's relationship with her family influence her identity and choices throughout the story?
What role do friendships play in the novel, and how do they impact the characters' growth?
In what ways do the characters in the book confront and deal with societal expectations or cultural challenges?
How does Josie's journey towards self-discovery inspire you personally?
Discuss the importance of heritage and tradition as depicted in the story. How does this resonate with your own experiences?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate personal experiences with Josie’s struggles and achievements, fostering a deeper connection to the story.
Discuss the various family dynamics within the book, and compare them to your own family relationships to stimulate personal reflection and discussion.
Explore the theme of cultural identity together by sharing your own family's background and traditions, linking them to the narrative of the book.
Focus on the growth of characters over time, asking your child to think about how they have changed or wish to change as they grow.
Utilize the theme of resilience against adversity in the book to encourage your child to share their thoughts on overcoming challenges they face.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Identity and self-discovery
Explanation: The protagonist, Josie Alibrandi, navigates her teenage years while exploring her cultural identity and family history, helping her to come to terms with who she is.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of embracing their own unique heritage and identity, encouraging them to explore and accept their personal and cultural background.
Example Lesson: The importance of resilience
Explanation: Throughout the book, Josie faces various challenges including academic pressure, family expectations, and personal dilemmas. Her ability to persevere teaches the reader about the power of resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that despite difficulties, persistence and resilience can lead to overcoming obstacles and achieving personal growth.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Josie learns to empathize with others’ situations, including her mother and grandmother, which brings deeper familial connections and personal insights.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and consider other people's perspectives and emotions, fostering stronger relationships and social awareness.
Example Lesson: Dealing with change
Explanation: As events unfold, Josie learns to adapt to changes both in her personal life and in her relationships. This adaptability is a key theme.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that change is a part of life and learning to adapt is an essential skill.