#1 in Merci Suárez Series
Merci Suárez Changes Gears
on Goodreads (8,206)
What’s inside...
Thoughtful, strong-willed sixth-grader Merci Suarez navigates difficult changes with friends, family, and everyone in between in a resonant new novel from Meg Medina.
Merci Suarez knew that sixth grade would be different, but she had no idea just how different. For starters, Merci has never been like the other kids at her private school in Florida, because she and her older brother, Roli, are scholarship students. They don’t have a big house or a fancy boat, and they have to do extra community service to make up for their free tuition. So when bossy Edna Santos sets her sights on the new boy who happens to be Merci’s school-assigned Sunshine Buddy, Merci becomes the target of Edna’s jealousy. Things aren't going well at home, either: Merci’s grandfather and most trusted ally, Lolo, has been acting strangely lately — forgetting important things, falling from his bike, and getting angry over nothing. No one in her family will tell Merci what's going on, so she’s left to her own worries, while also feeling all on her own at school. In a coming-of-age tale full of humor and wisdom, award-winning author Meg Medina gets to the heart of the confusion and constant change that defines middle school — and the steadfast connection that defines family.
Character compass
Discussion points
How do you think Merci feels about her responsibilities at home and school? Can you relate to her feelings in any way?
What do you think are the biggest challenges Merci faces, and how does she handle them?
Merci’s grandfather, Lolo, is going through some changes. How does this affect Merci and her family?
What does friendship mean to Merci, and how does it change throughout the book?
How do the characters in the story show courage and kindness? Can you share an example from your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book to open up a bi-directional conversation. This shows that you value the book’s themes and are open to hearing your child's perspectives.
Encourage your child to think deeply about Merci's friendships and family dynamics. Ask how these relationships compare to their own.
Discuss the cultural elements in the book. This can be a great opportunity to explore and appreciate diverse backgrounds and understandings.
Focus on Merci’s character development throughout the story. Ask your child about moments in the book where Merci learned something important about herself.
If your child seems particularly moved by a part of the story, delve deeper into that emotion. Ask what it was about that moment that stood out to them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Merci Suárez navigates the complexities of relationships and helps readers understand different perspectives, especially dealing with her grandfather’s Alzheimer's disease.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to empathize with friends and family members who may be experiencing personal challenges, fostering a compassionate and supportive environment.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of change
Explanation: Throughout the book, Merci experiences many changes, both at school and home. Her ability to adapt and grow teaches children about resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that change is a part of life and that staying positive and adaptable is crucial in overcoming new challenges.
Example Lesson: The importance of family and community support
Explanation: The Suárez family is a tight-knit group demonstrating constant support for one another, which plays a critical role in Merci’s development and handling of personal issues.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of having a supportive network and how leaning on loved ones during difficult times is vital.
Example Lesson: Identity and Self-acceptance
Explanation: Merci struggles with fitting in at her private school and deals with issues of identity and cultural differences, ultimately learning to embrace her uniqueness.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of accepting and celebrating their own and others' identities, building self-esteem, and respect for diversity.