Mates, Dates and Mad Mistakes (The Mates, Dates Series Book 6)
#6 of 12 in Mates, Dates Series
on Goodreads (2,446)
What’s inside...
Eager to be treated like an adult, Izzie sets off to prove to everyone that she is worthy of her new status--despite the few setbacks she may have during the transition. Original. As soon as Mum dropped me off, I made a dive for the ladies room, where I trashed the sandwich she'd made me and reapplied my makeup. Mum really didn't understand. I couldn't possibly get up on stage in front of everyone looking like I was dressed for afternoon tea with my grandma. Izzie is restless, and eager to be treated like an adult. So she decides it’s time to make some changes. But the new Izzie comes with new problems. First there is Josh Harper, an older, cute-but-wild boy. Then there is her mother, who is opposed to every part of the “new Izzie.” How can Izzie learn about herself and what it means to be grown up—without upsetting everyone along the way?
Character compass
Izzie Foster
Tony
Mark
Nesta Williams
Lucy Lovering
T.J.
TJ Watts
Discussion points
How do you think the characters’ choices affected their friendships? Can you relate to any of their experiences?
What did you learn about handling disagreements after reading this book?
Were there moments in the story where you felt proud or disappointed in the characters' decisions? What would you have done differently?
The book presents various views on growing up. Which character’s perspective resonated most with you and why?
How do you think trust and honesty contribute to strong friendships, as shown in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story by sharing their own experiences with friends.
Discuss the consequences of the characters' actions to enhance understanding of right and wrong.
Ask your child which character they felt most connected to and explore what traits they share with that character.
Explore the theme of trust and honesty together by discussing real-life scenarios where these values are important.
Use examples from the book to talk about the process of growing up and the changes it entails, making connections to your child’s own life stages.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance and confidence
Explanation: The protagonist, Izzie, navigates through various challenges and learns to embrace her unique qualities, boosting her self-esteem.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by understanding their worth and feeling confident in their abilities, regardless of external pressures or comparisons.
Example Lesson: Consequences of dishonesty
Explanation: Izzie faces tricky situations due to dishonesty, which teaches her the importance of being truthful.
Real-World Application: This lesson highlights for children the long-term benefits of honesty in building trust and maintaining healthy relationships.
Example Lesson: Understanding and empathy
Explanation: The story showcases relationships between characters, promoting a narrative that encourages empathy towards others' feelings and situations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be considerate and try to understand their peers, fostering a supportive and empathetic community.
Example Lesson: Impact of peer pressure
Explanation: Throughout the book, Izzie confronts peer pressure and learns to make decisions for herself, rather than succumbing to the influence of friends.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to stand firm in their beliefs and make choices that align with their values, even in face of group influence.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: Izzie's experiences illustrate how true friends provide support and understanding, regardless of the circumstances.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of nurturing and valuing friendships that are respectful and uplifting.