#13 in The Baby-Sitters Club Series
Mary Anne's Makeover
on Goodreads (1,850)
What’s inside...
Mary Anne begins to change her image after her friends tease her about her conservative style. However, she soon realizes that her friends love her for who she is, not what she looks like.
Character compass
Discussion points
How do you think Mary Anne felt when she decided to change her look? Have you ever wanted to change something about yourself?
Why do you think the reactions of Mary Anne's friends were mixed about her makeover?
What does this story teach us about friendship and acceptance?
Do you think Mary Anne changed on the inside as well as the outside? In what ways?
If you were in Mary Anne's shoes, would you have made the same decisions? Why or why not?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a supportive environment where your child feels comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings about change and growth.
Encourage your child to relate personal experiences to Mary Anne's story, fostering empathy and deeper understanding.
Discuss the importance of being true to oneself, and the role of friends in personal changes.
Prompt your child to think about how they perceive changes in others and discuss acceptance and support among peers.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: Mary Anne's transformation in the story, from getting a new hairstyle to standing up for herself, shows how change can lead to personal growth.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be open to changes, such as moving to a new school or trying new activities, understanding these can be opportunities for self-discovery and improvement.
Example Lesson: Importance of Self-Expression
Explanation: Mary Anne's makeover is a form of expressing her unique personality. Her courage to change her appearance and speak up for her needs is a pivotal moment in the book.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to express themselves through their choices in clothing, hobbies, and friendships, helping them build a strong sense of identity.
Example Lesson: Respecting Differences
Explanation: As Mary Anne changes, she faces both support and criticism. The book illustrates how friends can have varying opinions yet still show respect and acceptance.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children to appreciate and respect the differences in others, promoting empathy and inclusivity in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Building Confidence
Explanation: Through her personal changes, Mary Anne grows more confident. This newfound confidence helps her navigate both old and new friendships more effectively.
Real-World Application: Children learn that self-confidence can be enhanced through personal achievements and self-expression, aiding them in social situations and personal challenges.