Off the Page: Anthology: Collections 6
illustrations by
What’s inside...
This collection includes 'Off the Page: Anthology: Collections 6', a diverse anthology of short stories and poems by author Benson that explore a range of themes and genres, and 'Off the Page', a YA novel by Jodi Picoult co-written with her daughter, telling the story of Oliver, a prince from a fairy tale who enters the real world and the complications that arise when he replaces a regular boy named Edgar. This novel is a sequel to 'Between the Lines' and explores the blurred lines between fiction and reality while seeking a fairytale ending. 'Off the Page' is an enchanting YA novel that features Oliver, a prince literally taken from the pages of a fairy tale and transported into the real world, and Delilah, the girl who wished him into being. Complications arise when Oliver must take the place of a regular boy, Edgar, in order to exist in Delilah's world. The plan seems perfect at first until everything gets turned upside down, challenging the line between what's on the page and what's possible, and questioning if there can truly be a happily ever after for everyone involved.
Age
12-18
Length
123 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite story in the collection and why did it stand out to you?
Which character did you find most interesting or relatable? What did you learn from them?
How did the different stories make you feel? Were there any emotions that surprised you?
If you could add another story to this anthology, what would it be about?
How do you think the stories in this book connect with each other?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book without interrupting. Active listening shows that their opinions are valued.
Relate the stories to your child’s experiences to help them make personal connections, enhancing their understanding and empathy.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to encourage deeper thinking and exploration of the book's themes.
Share your own perspectives and interpretations of the stories to foster a mutual exchange of ideas and a richer discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Throughout the anthology, characters demonstrate empathy by understanding and sharing the feelings of others, which helps resolve conflicts.
Real-World Application: Children can use this lesson to better understand their peers and build stronger friendships by acknowledging and respecting different perspectives.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: Multiple stories in the collection highlight characters working together to solve problems, emphasizing how collaboration leads to success.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this concept at school during group projects or in sports, learning that cooperation and communication are keys to achieving common goals.
Example Lesson: Value of Perseverance
Explanation: Characters in various stories face challenges but learn that persisting through difficulties can lead to overcoming obstacles and achieving their aims.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to not give up easily in their pursuits, whether in academics, sports, or personal hobbies.
Example Lesson: Celebrating Diversity
Explanation: The anthology includes characters from diverse backgrounds and stories from different cultures, teaching acceptance and appreciation of variety.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children embrace multiculturalism and respect for all individuals, promoting a more inclusive community environment.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Consequences
Explanation: Stories where characters must deal with the outcomes of their actions teach children about responsibility and that choices have consequences.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think before acting and understand the importance of making responsible decisions in their daily activities.