Who Am I Without Him? (Coretta Scott King Author Honor Title)
Coretta Scott King Author Honor Books Series
on Goodreads (2,085)
What’s inside...
Who Am I Without Him? is a collection of twelve short stories that explore the dynamics of teenage relationships. The book delves into the complexities of love, communication, and self-respect as both boys and girls navigate their way through falling in and out of love. With humor and relevance, this book breaks new ground by providing a nuanced perspective on the challenges and triumphs of seeking love and self-worth as a teenager. It is a Booklist Top Ten Romance Novel for Teens that offers an engaging and insightful exploration of today's teens' romantic experiences.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-14
Length
168 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some challenges the characters faced in their relationships? How did they handle them?
Is there a character you felt particularly connected to? Why?
How do the decisions made by the characters affect their relationships and self-image?
What did you learn about the importance of self-respect and respect towards others?
How can you apply the lessons from this book in your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the characters' decisions and the consequences of those decisions.
Discuss the importance of self-worth and how it influences one's choices in relationships and friendships.
Ask your child to reflect on how the characters' journeys could be different with different choices, fostering critical thinking about alternative outcomes.
Relate the themes of the book to real-life situations your child might encounter, making the connection between fiction and reality.
Create an open and trusting environment so your child feels comfortable discussing personal and potentially sensitive topics portrayed in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-worth
Explanation: The book illustrates the importance of understanding one's value independent of others, through the experiences and reflections of young protagonists.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value themselves based on their abilities, character, and contributions rather than relying on external validation.
Example Lesson: Consequences of peer pressure
Explanation: The narrative delves into how peer pressure shapes individual decision-making, as characters face dilemmas that test their morals and values.
Real-World Application: This helps children recognize the importance of making choices based on personal principles and the potential long-term effects of succumbing to peer pressure.
Example Lesson: Healthy emotional expression
Explanation: Through various scenarios in the story, characters express their emotions in constructive ways, learning from their mistakes and misunderstandings.
Real-World Application: Children can learn effective ways to communicate their feelings, fostering emotional intelligence and strengthening personal and social relationships.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The book portrays the diverse perspectives and stories of different characters, illuminating the complexity of their emotions and scenarios.
Real-World Application: Readers are encouraged to empathize with others' experiences, fostering a sense of community and cultural competence.