Maybe Marisol (Marisol Rainey, Book 1)
#2 of 3 in Maybe Marisol Series
on Goodreads (277)
What’s inside...
Surely Surely Marisol Rainey is a stand-alone companion novel to Erin Entrada Kelly's Newbery Medal winner Maybe Maybe Marisol Rainey. The story focuses on Marisol Rainey, a girl who dislikes sports, especially gym class. When required to play kickball, Marisol's fears and anxieties surface. With support from her best friend Jada and her older brother Oz, she confronts her fears. The book, featuring illustrations by the author, highlights themes of friendship, family, embracing differences, and perseverance, celebrating Marisol's journey.
Discussion points
How do you think Marisol felt when she was scared to climb the tree, and what would you do if you were in her shoes?
Marisol uses her imagination to have adventures. What kind of adventures would you like to go on using your imagination?
Why do you think friendship is important in Marisol's story? Can you share a story about a time a friend helped you?
Marisol finds courage by the end of the book. What does being brave mean to you?
How do Marisol's family members support her throughout the story? What are some ways our family supports each other?
Tip: Role play these questions
Ask open-ended questions that prompt deeper thinking and encourage your child to explore the themes of courage and friendship.
Relate the book’s themes to personal experiences your child may have had, which enhances connection and understanding.
Discuss the importance of imagination and creativity, encouraging your child to come up with their own imaginative stories or activities.
Praise your child’s responses and insights during the discussion to build their confidence and encourage a love for reading and storytelling.
Use the book as an opportunity to discuss and demonstrate empathy, by considering how Marisol felt in different situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Marisol Rainey, the protagonist, confronts her fear of climbing trees. Throughout the story, she musters the courage despite her initial trepidation.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking small steps to confront their own fears, whether it's trying a new sport, speaking in front of a class, or engaging with new peers.
Example Lesson: Importance of imagination
Explanation: Marisol has a vivid imagination, which she uses to escape her fears and entertain her friends. Her make-believe play is a central theme.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to use their own imagination as a tool for problem-solving and as a way to deepen their play experiences.
Example Lesson: Strength of friendships
Explanation: The book shows Marisol interacting with her friends who support and rally around her when she decides to face her fears.
Real-World Application: This story can help children see the value of nurturing friendships and being supportive friends themselves.
Example Lesson: Resilience through challenges
Explanation: Marisol shows resilience when things don’t go as planned, especially in her attempts to climb the tree and her interactions with her friends.
Real-World Application: Children learn that persisting through setbacks is crucial and that resilience can be developed like any skill.