Tears of a Tiger (Hazelwood High Trilogy Book 1)
#1 of 3 in Out of My Mind Series
on Goodreads (177,675)
What’s inside...
The death of high school basketball star Rob Washington in an automobile accident affects the lives of his close friend Andy, who was driving the car, and many others in the school. Eleven-year-old Melody has cerebral palsy and cannot walk, talk, or write, but she possesses a photographic memory and is the smartest kid in her school. Despite being dismissed by many as mentally challenged, Melody is determined to prove that she is not defined by her disability.
Character compass
Andrew 'Andy' Jackson
Monty Jackson
Keisha Montgomery
Robbie Washington
B.J. Carson
Tyrone Mills
Dr. Carrot
Discussion points
How do you think Andy handled his emotions throughout the story, and what might you have done differently in his situation?
What impact do you think peer pressure had on the characters' decisions? Can you relate any of their experiences to your own?
Why is it important to seek help when dealing with difficult emotions, as seen in the book?
How did the relationships between the characters change throughout the story, and what do you think caused those changes?
What lessons can we learn about forgiveness and guilt from the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own impressions of the book and invite your child to share their thoughts.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book’s events and characters, reinforcing that all emotions are valid.
Ask your child to relate the characters' experiences to their own, fostering a deeper personal connection to the story.
Discuss the various ways the characters handle adversity, highlighting the importance of resilience and seeking support.
Emphasize the themes of growth and redemption, encouraging your child to think about how mistakes can lead to personal development.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Coping with Grief
Explanation: In 'Tears of a Tiger', the protagonist Andy struggles with intense guilt and sorrow after his friend dies in a car accident. The story explores his journey through grief and its psychological impact.
Real-World Application: Children can learn about the importance of expressing emotions and seeking support during difficult times, rather than bottling up their feelings.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Consequences
Explanation: The narrative shows how Andy’s decision to drink and drive leads to irreversible consequences, highlighting the importance of responsible decision-making.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of making wise choices and considering the potential consequences of their actions.
Example Lesson: Support Systems
Explanation: The book illustrates how friends and family provide support to Andy, emphasizing the value of a supportive community during personal crises.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the significance of being there for others and how seeking and giving support can be crucial in overcoming challenges.
Example Lesson: Mental Health Awareness
Explanation: Andy’s emotional struggle demonstrates the impacts of untreated mental health issues, advocating for awareness and the seeking of professional help.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to recognize mental health as important and to understand that it’s okay to ask for help when dealing with emotional or mental health issues.