Alvin Ho: Allergic to Girls, School, and Other Scary Things
#1 of 6 in Alvin Ho Series
What’s inside...
Alvin Ho is an Asian American second grader who is afraid of everything—elevators, tunnels, girls, and, most of all, school. He’s so afraid of school that, while he’s there, he never, ever, says a word. But at home he’s a very loud superhero named Firecracker Man, a brother to Calvin and Anibelly, and a gentleman-in-training, so he can be just like his dad. From the author of the ALA Notable Ruby Lu series comes a funny and touching chapter book—perfect for both beginning and reluctant readers— that introduces a truly unforgettable character.
Discussion points
How did Alvin's fears affect his ability to make friends and participate in school? Can you relate to any of his fears?
What role did Alvin’s family play in helping him overcome his challenges? Which family member do you think influenced him the most?
Why do you think Alvin created his alter ego, Firecracker Man? How does it help him cope with his fears?
Alvin learns a lot about courage and friendship throughout the book. What are some instances where Alvin showed bravery?
If you could give Alvin one piece of advice, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their own fears openly, relating them to situations Alvin faces in the book.
Discuss the family dynamics in the story and ask your child to compare them to their own family interactions and support systems.
Prompt your child to talk about times they've felt brave or created imaginative solutions to their problems, similar to Alvin’s creation of Firecracker Man.
After discussing Alvin's courage, plan a small activity where your child can practice being brave in a comfortable setting.
End conversations by highlighting the positive changes in Alvin’s character, encouraging your child to think about how they can apply similar growth in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fear
Explanation: Alvin Ho, the protagonist, is a second grader who is afraid of many things. Throughout the book, readers see Alvin confront his fears and gradually learn to handle them.
Real-World Application: Children can relate to Alvin and learn that fears can be faced and overcome, encouraging them to tackle their own anxieties.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: Alvin struggles with making friends at school. However, through various challenges, he learns the value of friendship and begins to open up to his classmates.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of building relationships and supporting one another, promoting empathy and social skills.
Example Lesson: Self-Expression
Explanation: Alvin uses a Personal Disaster Kit and writes PDK (Possible Disaster Knot) to express his feelings and cope with his fears.
Real-World Application: Children can learn from Alvin’s creative ways of expressing himself and may be inspired to find their own unique methods to communicate their feelings and thoughts.
Example Lesson: Family Support
Explanation: Alvin's family plays an essential role in his journey, providing support and understanding. His father, in particular, helps him deal with his fears of school.
Real-World Application: This emphasizes the importance of family in a child’s life, showing how parental support and involvement can significantly influence their confidence and ability to face challenges.