Marcelo in the Real World
on Goodreads (19,598)
What’s inside...
Marcelo Sandoval, who has an autism-like impairment, has always attended a special school where his differences are protected. However, during the summer after his junior year, his father insists that he work in the mailroom of his law firm to experience the 'real world'. There, Marcelo meets Jasmine and Wendell, and learns about competition, jealousy, anger, and desire. His life changes when he discovers a picture of a girl with half a face in a file, connecting him to the real world's suffering and injustice, and inspiring him to take action. The novel is a mix of a love story, legal drama, and a celebration of the music within us, reminiscent of 'The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time'.
Age
8-13
Length
312 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Marcelo Sandoval
Jasmine
Arturo Sandoval
Aurora Sandoval
Wendell Holmes
Discussion points
How do you think Marcelo felt when he had to leave his comfort zone to work at his father’s law firm?
What are some ways Marcelo grows or changes throughout the story?
Marcelo encounters various ethical dilemmas in the law firm. What would you do if you were in his shoes?
How does Marcelo’s autism affect his interactions and relationships with other characters in the book?
What did you learn about justice and fairness from Marcelo’s experiences?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate personally by asking how they would feel and react in Marcelo’s various situations.
Discuss the importance of empathy by exploring how different characters in the book respond to Marcelo's unique perspective.
Highlight Marcelo's problem-solving approaches and ask your child when they have used similar methods in their own life.
Use examples from the book to discuss the broader implications of justice and fairness in everyday situations.
After reading, ask your child to summarize what they think the main message or lesson of the book is, promoting critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Marcelo, the protagonist, views the world differently due to his Asperger-like condition. His interactions expose readers to the importance of understanding and empathizing with others' perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace differences among peers, learning that everyone has unique perspectives and that empathy strengthens relationships.
Example Lesson: The significance of honesty
Explanation: Marcelo faces moral dilemmas involving honesty and transparency, especially when confronted with injustice at his father's law firm.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to value honesty and integrity, understanding that their actions impact others and that truthfulness is vital for trust and justice.
Example Lesson: The challenges and rewards of independence
Explanation: As Marcelo strives for autonomy, he encounters various challenges that test his adaptability and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can relate this to their own journey towards independence, recognizing that while challenges exist, personal growth and the triumph over obstacles are rewarding.
Example Lesson: The importance of personal convictions
Explanation: Throughout the book, Marcelo must navigate conflicts between his personal beliefs and the expectations of others, particularly in a corporate environment.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of staying true to one’s values and beliefs, even when faced with peer pressure or authoritative demands.