Ruby Starr
#1 in Ruby Starr Series
on Goodreads (49)
What’s inside...
Perfect for younger fans of the Dork Diaries and Story Thieves series, Ruby Starr is an older Junie B. Jones with a big imagination and a love of reading. Ruby Starr has always loved books. She loves them so much that she started a lunchtime book club called The Unicorns. She also has the best friends ever—some real, some fictional—and that's just the way she likes it. But then one dark and stormy night (okay it was the morning of a sunny day) Charlotte, a new student comes to town. Ruby knows from her books that a new character probably means trouble...and she's right! Charlotte wants to turn the book club into a drama club, and she's spending a lot of time with Ruby's best friend. Ruby's going to have to use her imagination and love of reading to solve this big problem before she loses her school friends and her book friends for good.
Character compass
Ruby Starr
Lucy
Charlotte
Discussion points
How do you think Ruby feels when she speaks up for her beliefs? Can you relate to her feelings?
What would you do if you were faced with a similar situation as Ruby at school?
Ruby loves books! What are your favorite books and why do they mean so much to you?
How do you think friendship is portrayed in the story? What do you value in a friend?
Ruby shows a lot of courage throughout the book. What does being brave mean to you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings as you discuss, ensuring they know there’s no right or wrong answer.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s personal experiences to help them connect more deeply with the story.
Ask follow-up questions to your child’s responses to demonstrate active listening and further explore their views and ideas.
Create a warm and supportive environment for the conversation, perhaps discussing over a favorite snack or during a quiet time.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Imagination
Explanation: Ruby Starr’s character vividly demonstrates the power of imagination, as she often retreats into her own fantasy world inspired by the books she reads.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to develop their own creative thinking and problem-solving skills through imaginative play and storytelling.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the story, Ruby learns to navigate her relationships with her peers, understanding the importance of empathy, trust, and support among friends.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to appreciate and nurture friendships, helping them build strong social skills and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Courage to Stand Up for What is Right
Explanation: Ruby faces challenges where she has to stand up for her beliefs, particularly when it comes to protecting her love for reading and the school library.
Real-World Application: Instills the virtue of resilience and bravery in children, empowering them to defend their passions and advocate for positive change in their communities.
Example Lesson: Handling Change
Explanation: As new situations arise, like a new girl joining her school, Ruby learns to adapt and accept changes gracefully.
Real-World Application: Prepares children to cope with changes and transitions in life, promoting flexibility and openness.
Example Lesson: Influence of Reading
Explanation: The story underscores how reading can shape one’s identity and values, as seen with Ruby's character development influenced by the books she reads.
Real-World Application: Highlights the educational and developmental benefits of reading, inspiring children to explore different books and genres.