True Things (Adults Don't Want Kids to Know) (Amelia Rules!)
#6 in Amelia Rules! Series
on Goodreads (540)
What’s inside...
Amelia Louise McBride is navigating the challenges of turning eleven in a small town after moving from Manhattan due to her parents' divorce. Her eleventh birthday starts with a fabulous party, but soon her life takes a turn as her friends start fighting, she receives a terrible report card, and she faces heartbreak from her first crush. With her Aunt Tanner preoccupied, Amelia must learn tough lessons about growing up and handling life's unpredictabilities. In the sixth volume of Amelia Rules!, Amelia helps Aunt Tanner revive her music career—and pays the price for doing so, Rhonda comes to terms with her newfound popularity, and Reggie discovers that you can’t stay a kid forever. And if that weren’t enough, Amelia finds out how a crush can truly be crushing. While Amelia learns about love the hard way, she discovers a number of true things (adults don’t want kids to know)—but, as always, with a generous dose of Gownley humor!
Character compass
Amelia Mcbride
Rhonda Bleenie
Pajamaman
Reggie Grabinsky
Amelia’S Mother
Aunt Tanner
Discussion points
What do you think are some 'true things' that adults might not want kids to know? Why do they keep them secret?
How do the characters in the book handle secrets? What can we learn from their choices?
Do you think it's important to always tell the truth, or are there times when it's okay to keep a secret?
How do you feel when someone tells you a secret? Does it change how you think or feel about them?
If you had a secret like Amelia, who would you trust to tell and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions to encourage your child to express their thoughts and relate personal experiences to the story.
Validate their feelings and viewpoints to make them feel secure in sharing more openly.
Discuss personal experiences relating to truth and secrecy to bridge connections between your experiences and theirs.
Encourage critical thinking by asking what they would do differently from the characters in similar situations.
Foster empathy by exploring different perspectives on why people might keep secrets or reveal them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The protagonist, Amelia, navigates complex family dynamics and friendships, teaching readers about the importance of seeing situations from others' perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by being more considerate and understanding towards their peers and family members, fostering stronger relationships.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Change
Explanation: Amelia deals with her parents’ divorce and moving to a new school. Her journey highlights how she adapts to these changes.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that while change can be challenging, embracing it can lead to personal growth and new opportunities.
Example Lesson: Importance of Honesty
Explanation: Throughout the book, Amelia learns the consequences of dishonesty and the value of being truthful, even when it's difficult.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of honesty in building trust and integrity in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Courage to Stand Up for What is Right
Explanation: Amelia often stands up against bullies and unfair situations, demonstrating moral courage.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be assertive and defend themselves and others against injustice in their community and school.
Example Lesson: The Power of Friendship
Explanation: The support Amelia receives from her friends throughout her challenges showcases the strength and value of true friendship.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to nurture their friendships and rely on their friends during tough times, enhancing their emotional support network.