Barker Twins, The: Go Away, Girls!
The Barker twins Series
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
Moffie and her twin brother Morgie love sitting together at lunch and playing Surprise Swap with different groups of friends, until the day the boys in the class decide that boys and girls should sit at separate tables. When Ms. Shepherd announces that she’s starting a Lunch Club, the entire class is excited, especially Moffie and Morgie. Will it mean that the twins will get to sit together again?
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Max and Molly feel when the girls wanted to play with them? Can you relate to their feelings?
What are some ways Max and Molly could have responded to the girls differently?
Why is it important to share and play nicely with others?
What do you think the Barker Twins learned by the end of the story?
How would you have handled the situation if you were in the Barker Twins' shoes?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book’s events. Validate their feelings and relate them to real-life situations they may encounter. Use the story as an opportunity to discuss the value of kindness and cooperation. Ask them to think about alternative actions the characters could have taken, fostering problem-solving skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Differences
Explanation: In the story, the Barker Twins initially resist playing with girls due to their differences. However, as the narrative progresses, they learn to appreciate and accept these differences, leading to new friendships.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing diversity among their peers, leading to more inclusive playtimes and an understanding that everyone's unique traits contribute positively to group dynamics.
Example Lesson: Conflict Resolution
Explanation: The story showcases the twins navigating a conflict with their peers. Through communication and understanding, they resolve their disagreements amicably.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children learn effective ways to resolve conflicts with friends or classmates, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and empathy.
Example Lesson: Cooperation and Teamwork
Explanation: As the twins collaborate with the girls in the story, they realize that working together makes activities more enjoyable and successful.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to cooperate in group settings, be it in school projects or team sports, fostering a spirit of teamwork and shared success.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Stereotypes
Explanation: The twins overcome their initial stereotypes about girls and discover that both boys and girls can enjoy the same games and activities.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to challenge gender norms and stereotypes, promoting gender equality and allowing them to freely pursue interests regardless of societal expectations.