Stella Díaz Dreams Big
#3 of 5 in Stella Diaz Series
on Goodreads (134)
What’s inside...
In 'Stella Díaz Dreams Big' by Angela Dominguez, Stella navigates the challenges of fourth grade as she joins clubs and activities, filling up her schedule and making schoolwork harder. With the encouragement of her Sea Musketeers conservation club, Stella strives to balance her commitments and achieve her dreams, drawing on experiences from the author’s Mexican-American upbringing and incorporating Spanish vocabulary and illustrations.
Character compass
Stella Díaz
Jenny
Nick DíAz
Ms. Abbott
Mama
Discussion points
How do you think Stella felt when she faced challenges in the book? Can you relate to her feelings?
What are some ways Stella tried to achieve her dreams? What would you have done in her place?
Stella learns a lot about her heritage. Why do you think it's important to learn about where you come from?
How did Stella’s friends and family help her throughout the story? How do the people close to you help you achieve your dreams?
If you could give Stella one piece of advice, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Stella’s experiences, validating their emotions and drawing parallels to their own life.
Discuss the importance of heritage and culture, sharing stories from your own family history to deepen the connection.
Highlight the role of support systems, like friends and family, in overcoming obstacles and achieving goals, asking your child to consider their own support network.
Use Stella’s story as a starting point to discuss your child's dreams and aspirations, and the steps they can take to work towards them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Cultural Identity
Explanation: Stella Díaz Dreams Big dives deep into Stella's experiences as a Mexican-American child, illustrating the richness of navigating two cultures.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to celebrate their own heritage and openly share their cultural background with peers, enhancing diversity appreciation.
Example Lesson: The Power of Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, Stella encounters challenges in school projects and social scenarios but demonstrates resilience.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to persist in the face of difficulties, whether it's completing a difficult task or navigating friendships.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family and Support
Explanation: Stella's relationship with her family provides a support system that bolsters her confidence and decisions.
Real-World Application: Children understand the value of family support in personal growth and are encouraged to seek guidance and reassurance from family members.
Example Lesson: Building Self-Confidence
Explanation: Stella learns to overcome her insecurities and self-doubt through various achievements and encouragement from those around her.
Real-World Application: This lesson aids children in developing a positive self-image and confidence in their abilities, important for their overall mental and emotional well-being.
Example Lesson: Developing Friendships
Explanation: The book portrays Stella navigating the complexities of new and old friendships, showing the importance of communication and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of maintaining healthy relationships through empathy, honesty, and trust, skills necessary for building lifelong connections.