Sunny Makes a Splash
#4 of 6 in Sunny Series
What’s inside...
The latest in the New York Times bestselling Sunny series brings Sunny into a sink-or-swim summer, where she needs to float her first job and dive into her first maybe-flirtation. It's summer, and Sunny is BORED. Most of her friends are out of town. Her mom wants her to baby-sit way more than Sunny wants to baby-sit. There's nothing good on TV. The only place that's cool (in a not-boring sense) and cool (in a not-hot sense) is the community pool. Sunny loves going there . . . and loves it even more when she's offered a job at the snack shack. Soon she's flinging fries and serving soft ice-cream like a pro . . . with the assistance of the very sweet boy who works with her. Sunny's mom isn't sure Sunny should be quite so independent. But Sunny is definitely sure: Life is best when it's free swim.
Character compass
Sunny Lewin
Discussion points
How do you think Sunny felt when she made new friends at the pool? What can we learn from her experience?
What are some ways Sunny showed kindness to others in the story?
Why is it important to try new things like Sunny did? Have you ever tried something new and felt happy about it?
How did Sunny handle the challenges she faced? Can you think of a time you faced a challenge and how you dealt with it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Sunny’s adventures and relate them to their own experiences.
Highlight Sunny’s positive traits, such as her bravery and kindness, and discuss with your child how they can embody similar qualities in their daily life.
Focus on the theme of friendship in the book. Ask your child about their friendships and what makes a good friend.
Discuss the importance of perseverance and trying new things, using Sunny’s experiences as a starting point to inspire your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: In 'Sunny Makes a Splash,' Sunny collaborates with her friends to resolve various challenges they encounter, illustrating the power and value of working together.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to cooperate with peers during group activities at school or in sports, understanding that teamwork can lead to successful outcomes.
Example Lesson: Dealing with Change
Explanation: Sunny navigates new situations and environments which teaches her to adapt. This is crucial as change is constant, whether it’s a new school year or moving to a new place.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to embrace change positively, understanding it as an opportunity for growth and learning.
Example Lesson: Building Persistence
Explanation: Throughout the book, Sunny faces setbacks but keeps trying. Her persistent efforts demonstrate that perseverance is key to overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to not give up easily in their endeavors, be it academic challenges or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Value of Creativity
Explanation: Sunny uses her imagination to solve problems creatively in the story, which highlights the importance of thinking outside the box.
Real-World Application: Encouraging children to engage in creative thinking can enhance problem-solving skills and help them adapt to diverse situations creatively.