Off the Record
on Goodreads (2,322)
What’s inside...
The story follows seventeen-year-old Josie Wright, an aspiring journalist who wins a contest to write a celebrity profile for Deep Focus magazine. As she embarks on a multi-city tour, she encounters celebrities, handlers, producers, and stylists, and develops feelings for her profile subject, Marius Canet. However, her world is turned upside down when a young actress shares a terrible secret with her, leading Josie to uncover multiple accounts of misconduct. Faced with the dilemma of exposing the perpetrator and risking her budding career, Josie must decide whether to step up and share the women's stories. 'Off the Record' is a tribute to the MeToo movement and the solidarity among women.
Age
13-14
Length
311 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Josie Wright
Marius
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Josie to become a journalist, and how do you see these motivations influencing her actions?
How do Josie's experiences in the book shape her understanding of truth and integrity?
In what ways do you think the relationship between Josie and Mari affects their individual growth?
What are the challenges Josie faces, and how does she overcome them?
How do the themes of privacy and public perception play out in the story, and what lessons can be learned from them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book's themes, setting a model for open communication.
Encourage your child to think about how they would handle similar situations as Josie, fostering empathy and ethical thinking.
Discuss the role of media and the importance of integrity, drawing parallels to real-world examples for a deeper understanding.
Praise your child's insights and encourage them to ask questions, promoting an inquisitive mindset.
Relate the story's conflicts to personal experiences or challenges your child may face, fostering personal connection and relevance.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Integrity
Explanation: The protagonist in 'Off the Record' faces moral dilemmas that challenge her to maintain her integrity in difficult situations.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of staying true to their principles, even when faced with challenging choices.
Example Lesson: Courage to Speak Out
Explanation: The story showcases the main character's journey towards finding the courage to speak out against injustice, emphasizing the importance of using one's voice.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to voice their opinions and stand up for what is right, fostering a sense of justice and advocacy.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Through interactions with diverse characters, the protagonist learns to understand various perspectives, enhancing empathy.
Real-World Application: Promotes empathy in children, teaching them to appreciate and respect diverse viewpoints in their everyday interactions.