The Authentics
on Goodreads (863)
What’s inside...
The Authentics is a novel about Daria Esfandyar, an Iranian-American teenager who prides herself on her heritage and authenticity. She and her friends, known as the Authentics, navigate identity, culture, love, and family. During a school project, Daria discovers a shocking secret about her past, launching her into a journey of self-discovery. Amidst infighting among her friends, an extravagant sweet sixteen party planned by her mother, and a forbidden romance, Daria struggles to stay true to herself as her life spirals out of control.
Age
13-17
Length
288 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Daria Esfandyar
Discussion points
How do you think Daria felt when she discovered the truth about her family's history? How would you feel in her situation?
Why is it important for Daria to explore and understand her heritage? How does this change her perception of identity?
What does the term 'Authentic' mean to you after reading this book?
How do the characters in the book show courage and authenticity in their actions? Can you share a personal experience where you had to stand up for what you believe in?
How do Daria’s friendships change throughout the book? What do you think true friendship should look like?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting a discussion, encourage your child to think deeply about the characters and plot. Ask them to consider why characters made certain decisions.
Use examples from the book to bridge conversations about personal experiences and values, helping your child relate to the book’s themes.
Acknowledge your child’s feelings and perspectives as valid during discussions to promote a comfortable and open dialogue.
Highlight key moments in the story where characters face challenges or learn something significant, and ask your child how they might handle similar situations.
After discussing, encourage your child to draw or write about a scene that particularly struck them, deepening their connection to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Identity and Self-Discovery
Explanation: The protagonist, Daria, embarks on a project that leads her to discover unsettling secrets about her past, which ultimately helps her understand and redefine what identity means to her.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace their personal history and cultural heritage, fostering a strong sense of identity and self-confidence as they grow.
Example Lesson: The Value of True Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the story, Daria learns who her true friends are - those who accept her for who she truly is. This teaches the importance of loyalty and trust in friendships.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the importance of surrounding themselves with supportive and trustworthy friends, and being that kind of friend in return.
Example Lesson: Dealing with Change and Adversity
Explanation: Daria faces various challenges and changes that disrupt her comfortable life, teaching her how to adapt and grow from these experiences.
Real-World Application: Encourages resilience in children, helping them learn to cope with and adapt to change and adversity in a healthy way.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking and Seeking Truth
Explanation: Daria's journey involves questioning and analyzing the information she is given, which leads her to uncover her family's secrets.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to think critically about the information they receive and to seek their own truths rather than accepting things at face value.
Example Lesson: Acceptance and Open-Mindedness
Explanation: As Daria uncovers more about her family’s past and her own identity, she learns to accept and celebrate differences in others.
Real-World Application: Promotes acceptance and open-mindedness in children, teaching them to appreciate and respect diversity in people around them.