Ordinary Hazards: A Memoir
on Goodreads (3,888)
What’s inside...
In this memoir, Nikki Grimes shares her personal story of growing up with a drug-addicted father and a mentally ill mother. Despite facing numerous challenges and dangers, Nikki finds solace in her imagination and love of words. Her memoir, written in verse, details how writing helped her navigate and overcome the hazards of her life, leading her to appreciate the beauty in the ordinary. This powerful and inspiring story has earned multiple honors and is highly acclaimed.
Age
12-17
Length
336 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Nikki Grimes
Nikki'S Mother
Discussion points
How do you think the author's experiences as a child shaped her life and writing?
What are some challenges the author faced, and how do you think overcoming them affected her?
Why is it important to have hope and resilience in difficult situations, as demonstrated in the memoir?
Can you identify any moments in the book where the author felt misunderstood? How did she handle those situations?
What role do you think writing and creativity play in the author's journey through hardship?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about and express their own feelings related to themes of resilience and hope.
Use personal experiences or examples to help relate the author’s challenges to situations your child may encounter.
Highlight the significance of perseverance and ask your child about a time they had to persevere through a personal challenge.
Discuss the importance of self-expression through art or writing as a way to cope with challenges, drawing parallels to the author's use of poetry and storytelling.
Reinforce the idea that everyone's life story, including their own, is unique and valuable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Nikki Grimes shares her journey of overcoming hardships in her childhood, including dealing with a fractured family and mental health challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of persistence and resilience when facing their personal challenges, understanding that obstacles can be overcome with determination.
Example Lesson: The power of creativity and self-expression
Explanation: Throughout the memoir, Nikki uses poetry and writing as a way to cope with her emotions and experiences, showcasing the therapeutic power of creative expression.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore and embrace creative outlets like writing, drawing, or music as a way to express their feelings and thoughts.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The book provides insight into the complex emotions and situations faced by the author, fostering a deeper understanding of people who may seem different on the surface.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing more empathy and consideration towards their peers who might be experiencing difficulties, promoting a more inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: The importance of supportive relationships
Explanation: Nikki highlights the significant role that supportive figures, such as her sister and teachers, played in her life, helping her through tough times.
Real-World Application: This can lead children to appreciate and seek out positive relationships with family members, mentors, and friends that can support them in their growth and wellbeing.