#12 in The Baby-Sitters Club Series
Mallory Pike No.1 Fan
on Goodreads (884)
What’s inside...
Fifth-grader Mallory Pike has always wanted to be a member of The Baby-Sitters Club, but when it happens, she finds out the hard way that babysitting isn't as easy as it seems.
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Mallory to become such a devoted fan?
How did Mallory's feelings change throughout the story, and what events influenced these changes?
Can you relate to any of Mallory’s experiences? Why or why not?
What does this story teach us about friendship and support?
If you were Mallory, how would you have handled the challenges she faced?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book, ensuring them there are no right or wrong answers. Use reflections on Mallory’s actions and decisions to discuss real-life scenarios your child might face. Reinforce the values of understanding and empathy by asking your child how they would support a friend, similar to how characters in the book support each other. Share your own experiences related to the themes of the book to deepen the connection and discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: Mallory Pike faces challenges in her quest to pursue her passion for writing but continues to push forward despite setbacks.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of determination and persisting through difficulties to achieve their goals.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, Mallory relies on the support and advice from her friends, which helps her navigate her personal and professional struggles.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of building and maintaining positive relationships, and how friends can be a source of strength and comfort.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity
Explanation: Mallory encounters various characters from diverse backgrounds and learns to appreciate and embrace their differences.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to be open-minded and respectful towards people who might look, think, or act differently from them.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Mallory faces a series of problems she needs to solve, both in her personal life and in her attempts to become a writer which she addresses with critical thinking and creativity.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to apply critical thinking and creativity to overcome obstacles in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Self-expression through creativity
Explanation: The book highlights Mallory's journey of expressing herself through creative writing, showcasing her growth as a writer.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore and express their thoughts and emotions through artistic endeavors such as writing, drawing, or other forms of art.