Total Knockout: Tale of an Ex-Class President (mix)
mix Series
on Goodreads (50)
What’s inside...
Lucia Latham, an exceptional middle school student with straight A's and consecutive class presidencies under her belt, faces an unexpected challenge in her 8th grade year. Known for her prowess in boxing and her ability to excel in everything she attempts, Lucia's life takes a drastic turn when a major misstep leads to her impeachment as class president. As her world seems to crumble, Lucia must navigate through the obstacles and figure out a way to restore her reputation and reclaim her top status.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-13
Length
272 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Madison felt when she had to adapt to a new school environment? Can you relate to her experience?
Madison used her leadership and creativity to solve problems. What are some ways you might use your talents to help others around you?
How did Madison's relationship with her friends and family change throughout the story?
What do you think was Madison’s biggest challenge, and how did she overcome it?
If you were Madison, would you have made the same decisions? Why or why not?
Tip: Role play these questions
Initiate discussions about the book during shared reading times or shortly after, when the story is fresh in your child's mind.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Madison’s experiences, and relate them to their own life whenever possible.
Highlight key moments in the story where Madison demonstrated resilience or creativity, asking your child what they would do in similar situations.
Discuss Madison’s problem-solving strategies and ask your child to think of alternative solutions.
Reinforce the positive outcomes from the challenges faced by characters, emphasizing how those lessons might apply in your child’s daily life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Libby, faces challenges when she loses her status as class president. Through perseverance, she learns to cope and adapt.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding that setbacks are normal and can be overcome with determination and effort.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendships
Explanation: Libby relies on the support of her friends to navigate her new social dynamics, highlighting the value of true friendships.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value and nurture their friendships, recognizing the support and joy friendships can bring in tough times.
Example Lesson: Self-discovery and personal growth
Explanation: The story follows Libby as she discovers new interests and strengths after losing her class president title.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children that exploring new areas can lead to personal growth and self-improvement.
Example Lesson: Leadership takes many forms
Explanation: Despite not being class president anymore, Libby finds new ways to lead and influence others positively.
Real-World Application: Children learn that leadership is not about holding a title, but about how you influence and help others.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to change
Explanation: Libby learns to adjust to her new life situation and finds happiness in her new roles.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that being open and adaptable to changes in life is crucial for personal happiness and success.