The Only Girl in Town
on Goodreads (2,200)
What’s inside...
The Only Girl in Town by the bestselling author of the Matched series is a captivating tale of July Fielding, a young woman grappling with the mysterious disappearance of everyone in her small town, including her closest friends. As July embarks on a journey to uncover the truth behind their vanishings with only a series of objects left behind, she confronts her own grief, loss, and the transformation of her relationships. Deeply introspective and emotionally charged, this novel explores the intricacies of love, loneliness, and the necessity of self-discovery amidst the chaos of change.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-17
Length
336 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did you feel about the main character being the only girl in town? What challenges do you think she faced?
What are some ways the main character could make new friends or connect with her community despite feeling different?
Can you think of a time when you felt different from others around you? How did you handle it?
What did you learn from the main character's journey? Is there something she did that you would like to try?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage open dialogue by relating the main character's experiences to your child's own life. Listen actively and validate their feelings. Highlight the importance of empathy and understanding diverse perspectives. Use examples from the book to discuss overcoming challenges and the value of perseverance.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist in 'The Only Girl in Town' faces numerous challenges but overcomes them through determination and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of not giving up in the face of adversity, which can be applied to their own challenges in school or social settings.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, the main character learns to build and rely on friendships, showcasing how teamwork can solve problems that seem insurmountable alone.
Real-World Application: This teaches kids the significance of collaborating with others and fostering strong relationships, beneficial in group projects or family activities.
Example Lesson: Identity and self-acceptance
Explanation: The protagonist's journey includes self-discovery and acceptance, emphasizing being true to oneself.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the importance of embracing their unique qualities and being confident in who they are, which is crucial during their formative years.
Example Lesson: Courage to face the unknown
Explanation: Facing unknown situations bravely is a recurring theme as the main character encounters new challenges in the story.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to approach new experiences or changes in life with courage, reducing anxiety about new schools or new family dynamics.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The book highlights the protagonist's efforts to understand others from different backgrounds and perspectives.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to be empathetic towards their peers and foster a more inclusive and understanding environment at home and school.