Sisters
#2 in Smile Series
on Goodreads (106,227)
What’s inside...
The companion to Raina Telgemeier's #1 New York Times bestselling and Eisner Award-winning graphic memoir, Smile. Raina can't wait to be a big sister. But once Amara is born, things aren't quite how she expected them to be. Amara is cute, but she's also a cranky, grouchy baby, and mostly prefers to play by herself. Their relationship doesn't improve much over the years, but when a baby brother enters the picture and later, something doesn't seem right between their parents, they realize they must figure out how to get along. They are sisters, after all. Raina uses her signature humor and charm in both present-day narrative and perfectly placed flashbacks to tell the story of her relationship with her sister, which unfolds during the course of a road trip from their home in San Francisco to a family reunion in Colorado.
Character compass
Raina Telgemeier
Amara Telgemeier
Will Telgemeier
Raina'S Mother
Raina’S Father
Discussion points
How do Raina and Amara’s sibling dynamics change throughout the story and what influences these changes?
What role does the road trip play in shaping the sisters' relationship? Can you think of similar experiences in your life?
How does each family member’s unique personality contribute to the family as a whole?
What did Raina learn about her sister and herself by the end of the book?
How do the illustrations enhance your understanding of the characters’ emotions and relationships?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare and contrast their own sibling interactions or friendships with the dynamics between Raina and Amara.
Discuss the significance of family support depicted in the book, prompting your child to express how they feel supported by their own family.
Ask your child to identify their favorite comic panel in the book and explain why it stands out to them.
Invite them to draw a comic strip of their own that represents a fun or memorable family moment, similar to scenes from the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of family bonds
Explanation: In 'Sisters', Raina and her sister Amara's tumultuous relationship is portrayed through various family situations and misunderstandings. Over time, they learn to appreciate and support each other.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding the value of family relationships and working on strengthening bonds with their siblings and family members.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout the book, the family faces various challenges, including a stressful road trip and parental tensions. The sisters learn to adapt and stay strong together.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to stay positive and resilient when facing difficulties in their life, understanding that challenges can be overcome with patience and unity.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding towards others
Explanation: The book showcases moments where Raina and Amara begin to understand each other's unique struggles and perspectives, leading to a stronger relationship.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be considerate and try to understand where others are coming from, which can improve their social interactions and friendships.
Example Lesson: The significance of open communication
Explanation: Miscommunication often leads to conflicts between Raina and Amara. As they improve their communication, they find it easier to resolve conflicts.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to express themselves clearly and listen to others, which is essential for effective communication in all relationships.