The Unstoppable Bridget Bloom
on Goodreads (319)
What’s inside...
A bright and fun fat-positive YA novel about learning how to express yourself when what has always defined you is no longer an option. Perfect for fans of Julie Murphy and Emma Lord. Bridget Bloom's out-of-this-world voice is the perfect fit for center stage. When Bridget's admitted to Richard James Academy, a college prep boarding school with a prestigious music program where heartthrob Duke Ericson attends, all her dreams are on track to come true: leave the hometown where she's never belonged, fall in love, and launch her Broadway career. But upon arriving at the academy, she learns that due to her low music theory scores, she's not eligible to perform or earn the sponsorship she needs to afford the tuition. Worst of all, Dean of Students Octavia Lawless, the one person with the power to reverse the decision, challenges her to work on her humility ... by not singing at all. Without her voice, Bridget will have to get out of her comfort zone and find a new way to shine. Good thing she is unstoppable! From debut author Allison L. Bitz comes a coming-of-age story of self-discovery, humility, friendship, and love. Includes sheet music for two original songs!
Age
13-17
Length
352 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Bridget Bloom
Discussion points
What qualities make Bridget Bloom unstoppable? Can you think of a time when you felt unstoppable?
How does Bridget handle challenges in the book? What can we learn from her?
Bridget meets many characters along her journey. Who was your favorite and why?
What do you think is the most important message of 'The Unstoppable Bridget Bloom'?
If you were in the story, what would you do differently from Bridget?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to reflect on their own experiences that relate to Bridget’s adventures, helping them connect personally with the story.
Discuss the various characters and their roles in the book to enhance understanding of interpersonal relationships and character traits.
Highlight Bridget’s problem-solving methods and ask your child about alternate solutions to cultivate critical thinking.
Use the book’s central theme to discuss the importance of perseverance and resilience in everyday life.
After reading, ask your child to draw a scene from the book they found most inspiring, and discuss what it means to them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance pays off
Explanation: Bridget Bloom faces various challenges but never gives up, eventually achieving her goals.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persistence in overcoming obstacles in school or learning new skills.
Example Lesson: Creativity is a valuable asset
Explanation: Bridget uses her imagination to solve problems, showing creativity’s role in finding solutions.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to use their imagination in play and problem-solving, fostering innovative thinking.
Example Lesson: Being different is okay
Explanation: Bridget embraces her unique qualities, teaching children to appreciate what makes them different.
Real-World Application: Helps children accept and value their own and others' uniqueness, promoting self-esteem and empathy.
Example Lesson: Teamwork leads to success
Explanation: Throughout her journey, Bridget collaborates with friends, highlighting the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the benefits of working together, whether in school projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of failure
Explanation: Bridget experiences setbacks but learns to bounce back, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Instills a mindset in children that failure is a stepping stone to success and not a permanent state.