The Real Riley Mayes
#1 of 33 in Once/Now/Then/After Series
on Goodreads (431)
What’s inside...
A Stonewall Book Award Honor and a Sid Fleishman Humor Award Honor-winning debut graphic novel, this story follows fifth-grader Riley as she navigates the challenges of friendship, identity, and self-acceptance. With her best friend gone and her grades slipping due to her passion for drawing, Riley finds solace in her favorite comedian, Joy Powers. When a class assignment leads her to write a letter to Joy, new friendships with classmates Cate and Aaron begin to blossom. However, a malicious rumor forces Riley to confront her feelings and sense of identity, leading to a heartfelt journey of self-discovery and the realization of embracing all the parts of oneself. Infused with humor and emotion, Riley's story resonates with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider, making it a relatable and inspiring tale.
Character compass
Riley Mayes
Cate
Ms. Hart
Discussion points
What makes Riley Mayes feel different from the other kids, and how does she cope with those feelings?
Can you think of a time you felt different like Riley? How did you handle it?
Riley meets several challenges in the story. Which challenge do you think was the hardest, and why?
How did Riley's friends and family support her throughout the story?
What do you think is the most important lesson Riley learns by the end of the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and emotions about the book’s events, relating them to their own experiences.
Highlight the importance of empathy by discussing how Riley's friends helped her, and ask your child how they can support their friends in similar ways.
Discuss the solutions to the problems presented in the book, and ask your child if they would have done something differently, fostering critical thinking.
Praise your child for sharing their insights and relating to the character, reinforcing their engagement and understanding of the story's themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'The Real Riley Mayes,' Riley navigates challenges at school and misunderstandings with friends, showing kids how empathy can lead to better relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy by considering others' feelings and perspectives, which can help resolve conflicts and foster stronger friendships.
Example Lesson: Confidence and Self-expression
Explanation: Riley learns to express her true self despite fears of judgement. This journey highlights the importance of being authentic.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to embrace their unique qualities and express themselves confidently in social settings, at school, or during extracurricular activities.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Difficulty
Explanation: Riley faces setbacks, but her determination to overcome them teaches children the value of resilience and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children learn to navigate their own challenges, whether it's dealing with academic pressures or personal issues, with a resilient mindset.