Those Kids from Fawn Creek
on Goodreads (2,306)
What’s inside...
Every day in Fawn Creek, Louisiana, is exactly the same until new student Orchid Mason arrives in the seventh grade at Fawn Creek Middle School. With twelve students who have known each other all their lives in a small factory town, Orchid's arrival brings a new dynamic as she takes the place of Renni Dean, who moved away. As the students navigate friendship, family, and their tightly knit social groups, they must also confront issues of deception and staying true to themselves and their dreams. Orchid Mason, who moved from Paris and was originally from New York City, brings a sense of mystery and the potential to shake up the status quo. As the story unfolds, it becomes a powerful exploration of the impact one individual can have on a community.
Age
8-12
Length
336 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Dorothy Whitehead
Janie
Orchid Mason
Greyson
Renni
Discussion points
What qualities do you think make Orchid Mason a unique character in 'Those Kids from Fawn Creek'?
How do the relationships between the children in Fawn Creek change throughout the story? What events influence these changes?
Which character in the book would you like to be friends with and why?
How does the setting of Fawn Creek contribute to the story? Can you imagine the story taking place somewhere else?
What lessons do you think the characters learned by the end of the book? Have you learned similar lessons in your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the characters’ shoes to better understand their motives and feelings. This not only aids in comprehension but enhances empathy. Utilize the open-ended questions to spark a deeper conversation that goes beyond the plot, exploring the themes and moral lessons of the story. Ask your child how they might react in similar situations, fostering critical thinking and personal connection to the narrative. Finally, emphasize the joy of reading by celebrating the book’s moments of humor and creativity together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy
Explanation: In 'Those Kids from Fawn Creek', characters demonstrate understanding and compassion towards each other’s diverse backgrounds and individual challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy in their daily interactions at school or in the community by being considerate of others' feelings and perspectives.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: The story showcases how friendships can develop despite differences and how they enrich our lives.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to build and maintain friendships by being open to connecting with peers who might seem different from them.
Example Lesson: Courage to face change
Explanation: Characters in the book often face new and challenging situations, demonstrating bravery and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can embrace changes in their own lives, such as moving to a new place or changing schools, with a positive attitude and courage.
Example Lesson: Importance of self-expression
Explanation: Through various scenarios, the book highlights how characters express their unique identities and opinions.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be confident in sharing their own thoughts and feelings in diverse settings.
Example Lesson: The power of curiosity
Explanation: The story promotes the significance of asking questions and exploring the world around them.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to engage in learning and discovery through their natural curiosity, enhancing their educational and personal growth.