The Good Turn
What’s inside...
Josephine Williams is an eleven-year-old leader who forms her own Scout troop, the Copseys, with her friends Wesley and Margot. They embark on a quest to earn their camping badge by sleeping near an abandoned factory. During their adventure, they encounter something unusual - someone appears to be living in the derelict building. As the Copseys investigate, they not only aim to solve the mystery but also have the opportunity to earn their bravery and activism badges. This story, perfect for fans of Robin Stevens and Katherine Woodfine, combines fast-paced adventure, engaging characters, and themes of real-life activism.
Age
9-12
Length
381 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Josephine Williams
Discussion points
What do you think made the main character decide to do a good turn each day?
How did the actions of the main character impact the people around them?
Can you think of a time when someone did something kind for you? How did it make you feel?
If you were in the story, what good turn would you have liked to do?
How do you think doing good turns might change our community?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing a personal experience about a good deed you've done or received.
Encourage empathy by asking how they would feel in the scenarios presented in the book.
Ensure to listen actively to your child’s responses, showing interest and asking follow-up questions to deepen the discussion.
Relate the story's themes to real-life events in your community or family to make the discussion more tangible.
Praise your child for thoughtful responses and insights, reinforcing positive thinking about the book's themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Kindness
Explanation: In 'The Good Turn,' the characters often engage in acts of kindness towards each other, showing empathy and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by helping a friend in need or sharing their toys, fostering a caring community around them.
Example Lesson: Value of Teamwork
Explanation: The story emphasizes working together to solve problems, highlighting how collaboration leads to success.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice teamwork during group activities at school or in sports, learning to value each member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Characters in the book take on responsibilities and learn to manage them effectively, demonstrating accountability.
Real-World Application: This can be mirrored in a child's life by taking care of a pet, or being responsible for their own room, enhancing their sense of duty and reliability.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Challenges
Explanation: Throughout 'The Good Turn,' characters face various challenges but find creative ways to overcome them, promoting resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by navigating their own challenges, such as learning a new skill or dealing with a tough school assignment, building their problem-solving skills and confidence.
Example Lesson: Importance of Honesty
Explanation: Honest interactions among the characters build trust and strengthen relationships in the narrative.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the value of being truthful with family and friends, which helps in developing lasting, trusting relationships.