The Downstairs Girl
on Goodreads (38,878)
What’s inside...
From the founding member of We Need Diverse Books, Stacey Lee's novel explores identity, betrayal, and family through the life of seventeen-year-old Jo Kuan. By day, Jo works as a lady's maid in Atlanta, but by night, she secretly authors an advice column as 'Miss Sweetie.' Her writings challenge societal norms on race and gender, leading to backlash and a quest to uncover her own past. The search exposes Jo to danger but also offers her a chance to step into the light. This powerful narrative set in the New South is a mix of witty, insightful, and heartbreaking prose.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-17
Length
390 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How does Jo Kuan's dual life as a maid and advice columnist challenge the norms of her society? What does this say about the roles people are expected to play?
In what ways does Jo use her voice to stand up against injustice and discrimination in her community? How can you apply this in your own life?
How does the author use the setting of the book, 1890s Atlanta, to enhance the story? What impact did the historical context have on the characters and their actions?
Discuss the various relationships Jo has with other characters in the book. How do these relationships help her grow and change throughout the story?
What are some of the key lessons you can learn from Jo's resilience and determination? How can you implement these lessons into your daily life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the historical context of the story and how it compares to modern times. This will help them appreciate the progress made and the challenges that remain.
Discuss the importance of having a voice and standing up for one’s beliefs, drawing parallels with Jo’s courage in the book. Use examples from the child’s own life where they can relate.
Highlight the complexity of characters and their motives. Encourage your child to think about why characters act the way they do and what that tells us about human behavior.
After discussing a question, relate the themes back to your child’s personal experiences. This will make the conversation more meaningful and relatable.
Praise your child for their insights and encourage them to keep asking questions and thinking critically about the themes of the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Jo Kuan, demonstrates resilience as she faces racial and gender prejudice in the 1890s Atlanta, yet continues to pursue her aspirations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stay determined and keep working towards their goals, despite facing challenges or setbacks.
Example Lesson: The importance of voicing your thoughts
Explanation: Jo Kuan channels her thoughts and opinions through an anonymous column in a local newspaper, influencing societal views despite her own societal status.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to express their opinions and understand the power of their voice, regardless of their age or status.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding different perspectives
Explanation: Through Jo’s interactions and experiences with diverse characters, the story explores multiple facets of society and varying viewpoints.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to empathize with others and consider perspectives different from their own, fostering inclusivity and understanding.
Example Lesson: Questioning societal norms
Explanation: Jo Kuan challenges the oppressive societal norms of her time, particularly those regarding race and gender, advocating for change and equality.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to critically analyze and question unjust norms in their surroundings and inspires them to think about how they can contribute to making society more equitable.
Example Lesson: Importance of self-identity
Explanation: As Jo explores her past and uncovers her own family secrets, she develops a stronger sense of her identity which empowers her actions and decisions.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to explore and embrace their own identities, which can boost their confidence and help them navigate through life's challenges.