Opening My Eyes Underwater
Once/Now/Then/After Series
What’s inside...
Inspired by the life and quotations of former first lady Michelle Obama, Opening My Eyes Underwater is a collection of essays penned by bestselling author Ashley Woodfolk. In essays about bullying, heartbreak, racism, and confidence, Woodfolk taps into her past to share those stories that made her who she is today. She seamlessly weaves in parallel experiences that both she and Mrs. Obama have faced in their separate childhoods as well as their adult lives. Open, searing, and honest, these are stories that will help readers feel seen. Readers who are growing and learning as they move forward through life's triumphs and pitfalls will undoubtedly gravitate to and find comfort within its pages.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
13-18
Length
272 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the characters' experiences in the book make you feel?
What do you think is the main message of the story?
Can you relate to any of the characters? Why or why not?
What would you have done differently if you were in the main character's position?
How do you think the story would change if it happened in a different place or time?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book by asking them about the parts that excited, surprised, or confused them.
Discuss the decisions made by the characters and ask your child what they would do in similar situations, helping them connect their personal experiences to the story.
Highlight key themes or lessons from the book, and relate them to everyday life to reinforce the message.
Promote creativity by asking your child to draw a scene from the book or to imagine a different ending.
Use examples from the book to teach empathy, explaining how understanding different perspectives can lead to better relationships and decision-making.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing diversity
Explanation: The story portrays various characters from diverse backgrounds and emphasizes the importance of accepting and valuing differences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate diversity in their own classrooms and communities, fostering inclusive attitudes from a young age.
Example Lesson: Importance of perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist faces challenges but continues to strive forward, showing the benefits of persistence.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to not give up when facing difficulties in school or in personal endeavors, encouraging resilience.
Example Lesson: Value of curiosity
Explanation: The title itself hints at exploration and the narrative centers around discovery and seeking knowledge.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore the world around them and ask questions about how things work, bolstering their learning and understanding.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The setting under water highlights the beauty and fragility of aquatic environments, promoting ecological awareness.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to engage in environmental protection activities and learn the significance of maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Example Lesson: Building friendships
Explanation: Interactions among characters showcase the building of strong, supportive friendships.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of forming and nurturing positive relationships with peers, which is crucial for emotional and social development.