What Happened to Rachel Riley?
on Goodreads (3,121)
What’s inside...
In this contemporary middle grade novel, eighth grader Anna Hunt investigates why Rachel Riley, a formerly popular girl, has become a social outcast at East Middle School. Using social media posts, passed notes, and other clues, Anna creates a podcast to uncover the truth behind Rachel's sudden change in status. As she delves deeper, the mystery expands and the implications of her findings grow. This inventive story combines elements of 'Where'd You Go Bernadette?' with a #MeToo message, resulting in a thought-provoking exploration of social dynamics and the consequences of seeking the truth.
Age
8-12
Length
352 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Rachel felt when she discovered the secret? What would you do in her situation?
What are some ways Rachel tried to solve her problem? Can you think of other ways she could have handled it?
Why is it important to have supportive friends like Rachel did? How do they help us during tough times?
What did Rachel learn about herself by the end of the book?
How do secrets affect relationships? Have you ever kept a secret or had one kept from you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by summarizing the book together, ensuring your child understands the plot and characters.
Encourage your child to express their emotions about the book’s events, fostering empathy and personal connections.
Ask your child to relate personal experiences that might parallel Rachel’s situation, deepening their understanding of the book's themes.
Help your child identify the moral lessons in Rachel’s story and discuss how these lessons can be applied in real life.
Encourage critical thinking by discussing with your child what different decisions Rachel could have made and exploring the potential outcomes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The story navigates Rachel Riley's challenges, showing how she feels and reacts, which helps children understand different perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by recognizing emotions in others and responding with kindness and consideration in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Challenges
Explanation: Rachel encounters several obstacles, but she learns to overcome them through determination and support from friends and family.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence and courage when facing their own difficulties, be it in school or in personal relationships.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family and Friendship
Explanation: The supportive roles of Rachel’s friends and family are highlighted, emphasizing the importance of having a support system.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of nurturing relationships and relying on loved ones during tough times.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: Rachel's decisions lead to various outcomes, which illustrate the importance of thinking before acting.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to consider the potential results of their choices, promoting responsibility and thoughtful decision-making.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Change
Explanation: Throughout the book, Rachel learns to adapt to changes in her life, demonstrating the inevitability and often positive side of change.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that change is a natural part of life and adapting to it can lead to personal growth and new opportunities.