The Black Girls Left Standing
What’s inside...
Sixteen-year-old Beau Willet dreams of becoming an artist and escaping the Chicago projects where she grew up. However, her plans change when her sister, Katia, is killed by an off-duty police officer. Determined to clear her sister's name, Beau seeks to find the only witness to the murder, Katia's boyfriend Jordan, who has mysteriously disappeared. With the help of her friend Sonnet, Beau creates a Twitter account to gather information and discovers increasingly dangerous truths about her sister's death. As Beau navigates a budding romance with her childhood friend Champion and struggles to keep her family together, she must decide how much she is willing to risk to ensure her sister's story is told.
Age
14-18
Length
336 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Beau Willet
Discussion points
How do the main characters' experiences reflect or differ from those in your own life?
What role does family play in the story, and why do you think it is important?
How do the characters show strength and resilience in the face of challenges?
What did you learn about friendship and support from the events in the book?
How do you think the story would change if it took place in a different setting or time?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the characters and events, validating their opinions and emotions.
Connect the book’s themes to real-life situations that your child may encounter, facilitating empathy and understanding.
Discuss the cultural and historical context of the story to provide a deeper understanding and appreciation.
Highlight the accomplishments and growth of the characters, prompting your child to reflect on their own growth and achievements.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist of 'The Black Girls Left Standing' showcases courage and perseverance through challenging circumstances, highlighting the importance of staying strong.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to maintain a positive outlook and keep striving towards their goals, even when faced with difficulties.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and community support
Explanation: Throughout the book, the support from family and the community plays a crucial role in the protagonist's journey, illustrating how vital a supportive network is during tough times.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of leaning on and contributing to their family and community for collective strength and mutual support.
Example Lesson: Self-identity and embracing uniqueness
Explanation: The main character’s journey towards self-discovery and acceptance of her identity encourages readers to appreciate and embrace their own uniqueness.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to understand and love themselves as they are, fostering self-confidence and a positive self-image.
Example Lesson: Navigating ethical dilemmas and moral choices
Explanation: The book confronts various moral challenges faced by the characters, prompting discussions on making the right choices even when they are difficult.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by thinking critically about right and wrong and making ethical decisions in their everyday interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Empowerment through voice and action
Explanation: The characters in the book learn to use their voice for advocacy, demonstrating empowerment and the impact of standing up for one’s beliefs.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to speak out against injustice and to understand that their voices can enact change, promoting active participation in their community.