The Mostly True Story of Jack
What’s inside...
Newbery Medal-winner Kelly Barnhill's debut novel, 'The Mostly True Story of Jack,' is an eerie tale of magic, friendship, and sacrifice. The story follows Jack, who is sent to live with his strange aunt and uncle in Hazelwood, Iowa. As he arrives, he realizes that the people of Hazelwood have been eagerly awaiting his arrival for a long time. Jack, who has always been practically invisible back home, starts making real friends, faces the town bully, and becomes the target of the town's wealthiest man. It's up to Jack to uncover why he suddenly matters so much to everyone. With a blend of dry wit and playfulness, Barnhill’s writing creates a delightfully unusual story about discovering where one truly belongs.
Age
8-12
Length
323 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Jack
Anders
Frankie
Wendy
Clayton Avery
Discussion points
What do you think Jack felt when he arrived in Hazelwood? Have you ever felt similar?
Why do you think the people in Hazelwood treat Jack differently? What does this teach us about acceptance?
What role do friendships play in the book? How do Jack's relationships change over the story?
How does the mystery of the town affect the characters and their actions? What would you do if you were in Jack's situation?
What do you think is the 'mostly true' part of Jack's story? Why do you think the author chose this title?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own impressions of the story and its characters to create an open space for conversation.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios to deepen their understanding and creative thinking.
Discuss the importance of empathy and understanding by reflecting on how Jack interacts with others in the story.
Use examples from the book to talk about courage and facing fears, asking your child about times they had to be brave.
Connect themes in the book to real-life situations to help your child apply lessons from the story to their own experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of self-discovery
Explanation: Jack, the protagonist, embarks on a journey that leads him to uncover his true identity and powers within a magical realm.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore their own talents and interests to better understand themselves.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship and trust
Explanation: Throughout the story, Jack forms bonds with other characters that help him in his quest, demonstrating the power of trust and camaraderie.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of building and maintaining trustful relationships in achieving common goals.
Example Lesson: Courage to face the unknown
Explanation: Jack often faces uncertain and frightening situations but manages to overcome fears, which is pivotal for his growth in the story.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to face their fears and embrace new experiences as opportunities for growth.
Example Lesson: Impact of choices on outcomes
Explanation: The narrative shows how Jack's decisions influence the events and the world around him, illustrating the consequences of one's choices.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand that their decisions have impacts and encourages thoughtful decision-making.
Example Lesson: Recognizing the importance of community
Explanation: Jack learns to value the community he becomes a part of, realizing that his contributions can have significant effects on others.
Real-World Application: Promotes the idea of contributing positively to one’s community and understanding the interdependent nature of society.