One Plus One Equals Blue
What’s inside...
Twelve year-old Basil has always felt different due to his ability to associate numbers with colors, a condition known as synesthesia. His unique gift has made him a loner, but his life takes a turn when he meets Tenzie, a new girl at school who shares similar experiences. At first, Basil is annoyed by Tenzie's pushiness, but when his estranged mother returns and disrupts his life, he finds that Tenzie may be the only one who can help him navigate through the turmoil. This coming-of-age novel by MJ Auch explores themes of friendship, family, and finding one's place in the world.
Age
10-14
Length
272 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Basil
Tenzie
Ginch
Discussion points
How did Basil and Tenzie use their unique ability to see numbers as colors to solve problems?
What are some ways that Basil and Tenzie helped each other grow throughout the story?
Can you think of a time when you felt different, like Basil and Tenzie, and how you coped with that feeling?
How do the characters' experiences with synesthesia influence their view of the world?
Why do you think the author chose to represent numbers as colors in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts about the characters' emotions and actions, focusing on understanding and empathy.
Relate the concept of synesthesia in the book to other unique traits people might have, highlighting the beauty and strength in diversity.
Ask open-ended questions that allow your child to connect their personal experiences with those of Basil and Tenzie, fostering a deeper connection to the story.
Discuss the development of friendship in the book, and relate it to your child's experiences with making and keeping friends.
Highlight the creativity used by the characters to solve problems and ask your child about times they have had to think creatively.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The book portrays the struggles of Basil, who deals with synesthesia, a condition where he perceives colors as numbers. This helps children understand and empathize with individuals who experience the world differently.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate the diversity in people’s experiences and perceptions, promoting inclusive behaviors in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Friendship and Support
Explanation: The story highlights the relationship between Basil and Tenzie, who helps him navigate his challenges. It emphasizes the importance of supporting friends.
Real-World Application: Children learn to build supportive and caring relationships, helping them understand the value of friendship in overcoming personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Problem-Solving
Explanation: Basil faces various challenges due to his synesthesia but learns to manage and even leverage it as a strength in his schoolwork.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to approach their own difficulties with resilience, seeking creative solutions rather than giving up.
Example Lesson: Acceptance and Self-Acceptance
Explanation: Throughout the book, Basil learns to accept his unique way of perceiving the world, while other characters learn to accept him as he is.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of accepting themselves and others, fostering a positive self-image and encouraging acceptance in diverse communities.