Take the Mic: Fictional Stories of Everyday Resistance
What’s inside...
Take the Mic is a young adult anthology that features fictional stories in the form of poems, prose, and art, showcasing the everyday resistance of diverse characters. From standing up to online trolls, marching to protest injustice, to being proudly #DisabledAndCute, these stories reflect the myriad ways people resist oppression and injustice in their daily lives. This powerful collection includes work by prominent authors such as Jason Reynolds and Samira Ahmed, as well as emerging talents, all curated to inspire and empower readers to find their own forms of resistance.
Age
11-12
Length
272 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do the characters in 'Take the Mic' show courage and resilience in their everyday lives?
Which story in the book resonated with you the most, and why?
How can we apply the lessons from these stories to our everyday challenges?
In what ways do the characters work together to overcome obstacles?
What does resistance mean to you after reading this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on a story from the book that struck you, to model open conversation.
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them how they might act in a similar situation as the characters.
Link discussions to real life by relating the book's themes to current events or personal experiences.
Praise your child’s insights to boost their confidence in expressing their ideas and opinions.
Ask follow-up questions to delve deeper into your child’s perspective and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The diverse characters and stories in 'Take the Mic' allow readers to see life from multiple perspectives, demonstrating the importance of understanding people who are different from oneself.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing more kindness and willingness to understand peers who come from different backgrounds or have different experiences.
Example Lesson: Courage and Self-expression
Explanation: The characters in the book show bravery in expressing themselves and standing up for what they believe in, even when it's difficult.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be courageous in expressing their own thoughts and feelings, and to defend their beliefs and the rights of others in everyday situations.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Challenges
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters encounter personal and social challenges but continue to strive for their goals, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persevere through their own challenges, whether they are academic, social, or personal, taking inspiration from the characters' resilience.
Example Lesson: Importance of Community Support
Explanation: Many stories in 'Take the Mic' emphasize the power of community and collective action, showing how support systems are crucial during resistance.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to value and participate in their own communities, seeking and providing support where needed.
Example Lesson: Respect for Diversity
Explanation: The book showcases a wide range of cultures, identities, and experiences, fostering an understanding and respect for diversity.
Real-World Application: By appreciating diversity as depicted in the stories, children can learn to respect and celebrate differences among their peers and in their broader community.