Splintering (hc)
on Goodreads (315)
What’s inside...
Relates, in a series of poems from different perspectives, the events and after-effects of an intruder's violent attack on a family. From the remarkable author of the PUSH bestseller YOU REMIND ME OF YOU, a searing novel in poems about a family falling apart after a violent assault. It's about the aftermath. It's about what happens after a stranger breaks into a house and attacks a family. It's about the sisters who must barricade themselves behind a splintering door while tethered on the phone to 911. It's about the father who nearly dies. It's about the son who hides. And everything after. Told in alternating perspectives, this is a powerful, moving story about a family that has its facade shattered by a random act of violence -- and must deal with what is discovered underneath.
Age
11-12
Length
192 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt when faced with challenges? Can you relate to those feelings?
What do you think is the most important message the story is trying to convey?
How would you have handled the situations presented in the book differently?
What did you learn about friendship and trust from the story?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in today’s world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their emotions and thoughts as they relate to the story. Use follow-up questions to delve deeper into their responses. Highlight the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by characters to discuss personal values. Compare and contrast the book’s setting and events with your child’s everyday life to enhance understanding and relevance.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The characters in 'Splintering' deal with a traumatic event that challenges their sense of security and stability. Throughout the story, they showcase strength and resilience in overcoming these difficulties.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain strong and optimistic even during tough times, such as moving to a new school or facing personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As the characters in the book interact with each other, they learn to understand and empathize with the differing perspectives and emotions of those around them.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop the ability to empathize with classmates and friends, understanding that everyone has unique feelings and experiences.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and community support
Explanation: In 'Splintering,' the protagonists find comfort and safety in the support of their family and community, highlighting how crucial a support system is during adverse times.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and rely on the support from their family and community, whether it's for help with school projects or comfort during a bad day.
Example Lesson: Coping with change
Explanation: The book shows characters navigating significant changes in their environment and lifestyle, learning to adapt and find normalcy.
Real-World Application: This lesson can assist children in understanding that change is a part of life, whether it's adapting to a new sibling at home or adjusting to changes in routine.