My Life with the Walter Boys (Netflix Series Tie-In Edition)
#1 of 2 in My Life with the Walter Boys Series
on Goodreads (66,388)
What’s inside...
The story follows Jackie Howard, who after losing her family in a tragic accident, is sent to live in Colorado with her mother's old friend and her 12 sons. Jackie must adjust to her new chaotic life while navigating the challenges of being the only girl in a house full of boys. Jackie, a girl who values perfection and order, must learn to adapt to the unpredictable and boisterous environment of the Walter boys. Throughout the story, Jackie learns to let go of her need for perfection and embrace her new family, finding love and support along the way.
Character compass
Jackie Howard
Alex Walter
Cole Walter
Katherine Walters
Discussion points
How do you think Jackie felt moving in with the Walter boys and how would you feel in a similar situation?
Which character in the book do you relate to the most and why?
What are some ways that Jackie changes from the beginning of the book to the end?
How do the relationships between characters influence their decisions and growth throughout the story?
If you could give Jackie one piece of advice at the start of her journey, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by discussing how adapting to new environments can be challenging and relate it to any similar experiences your child might have had.
Highlight the importance of understanding and resilience; ask your child how they perceive Jackie's handling of complex situations.
Facilitate a discussion on character development; ask your child how they observed Jackie’s transformation across the book.
Discuss the dynamics of the Walter family and ask your child how each member contributed to the story and to Jackie’s experience in different ways.
Promote critical thinking by having your child predict what might happen next if the book continued and relate those speculations to the themes discussed.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Adaptability and resilience
Explanation: The protagonist navigates new and challenging situations after moving in with the Walter boys, learning to adapt and remain resilient through unexpected changes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace change in their own lives, whether it's adjusting to a new school, welcoming a new family member, or other personal transformations.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and belonging
Explanation: Throughout the story, the importance of familial bonds and finding a sense of belonging within a large, blended family is emphasized.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to value their own family connections and contribute positively to building a supportive home environment.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The protagonist learns to understand and empathize with the diverse personalities and backgrounds of the Walter boys.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by learning to appreciate and respect the differences in others around them, fostering a more inclusive attitude.
Example Lesson: Conflict resolution
Explanation: The book shows how the characters resolve conflicts that arise from living together, teaching negotiation and compromise.
Real-World Application: Children can use these skills to handle disputes with peers or siblings, helping them navigate social interactions more effectively.
Example Lesson: Self-discovery and personal growth
Explanation: As the story progresses, the characters experience personal growth and self-discovery, influencing their decisions and relationships.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to engage in self-reflection and pursue personal development, shaping their identity and future.