The Silence that Binds Us
on Goodreads (5,266)
What’s inside...
Maybelline Chen, a Chinese Taiwanese American, grapples with familial expectations and her own aspirations of becoming a writer. After her brother Danny, a Princeton student struggling with depression, dies by suicide, May faces racist accusations against her family. Against her father's advice, she uses her writing to challenge these stereotypes and navigate the complex aftermath of speaking out. This debut novel by Joanna Ho explores themes of identity, loss, racism, and the power of storytelling with deep emotional resonance and a call to action.
Age
14-17
Length
448 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Maybelline Chen
Tiya
Danny Chen
Mrs. Chen
Discussion points
How did the main character's actions make you feel, and why do you think they reacted that way?
What do you think the silence in the title of the book represents? How can silence impact us in real life?
Can you think of a time when you felt misunderstood like the characters? What helped you or could have helped you during that time?
How do you think the story would change if it happened in our hometown?
What are some ways you can help someone who is feeling alone or misunderstood?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before discussing, ask your child to summarize the book in their own words. This helps them process the story and primes them for a deeper discussion.
Validate your child's feelings and thoughts as they answer questions, affirming that their perspective is important.
Relate questions to your child’s experiences. Personalizing discussions can make the themes more relatable and easier to understand.
Encourage critical thinking by asking follow-up questions that delve deeper into your child’s responses, fostering a more profound comprehension and reflection on the themes.
Capitalize on teachable moments within the book to discuss broader life lessons, such as empathy, resilience, and the importance of communication.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of open communication
Explanation: The story emphasizes the need for honest conversations within families and communities, especially around challenging topics.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to express their feelings and concerns openly with trusted adults, fostering a supportive environment for emotional growth.
Example Lesson: Coping with grief and loss
Explanation: Characters in the book navigate their personal grief, providing a narrative on managing emotions and the healing process.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand that grief is a normal emotion and teaches them ways to cope with loss in their own lives.
Example Lesson: The value of community support
Explanation: The book showcases how a community comes together during times of crisis, highlighting the strength found in unity.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to participate in and contribute to their communities, understanding the impact of collective support.
Example Lesson: Standing up against injustice
Explanation: The protagonist confronts social injustices, demonstrating courage and the importance of advocacy.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to stand up for what is right and to support fairness and equality in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout the challenges presented in the story, characters show resilience, teaching persistence and determination.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of perseverance when facing difficulties, encouraging them to overcome obstacles with a positive attitude.