Barry Loser: I am not a Loser
#2 of 11 in Barry Loser Series
on Goodreads (316)
What’s inside...
The Roald Dahl Funny Prize-winning series follows Barry Loser, whose life is turned upside down by a new student, Darren Darrenofski. Barry, who never minded his name due to his inherent coolness, faces new challenges as Darren makes his life difficult. The series includes titles like 'I am not a Loser', 'Barry Loser and the holiday of doom', and more, perfect for fans of humorous children's books like 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' and 'Tom Gates'. Author Jim Smith, an acclaimed children's book author, brings laughter and fun with his unique style and storytelling. You know when someone's horrible to you in a dream and you wake up really annoyed with them? That’s what happened to me with my best friend Bunky. Barry has a new problem: Gordon Smugly – who’s got the most perfect name for himself ever in the history of having a name, because he looks like a Gordon and is smug and ugly – has stolen Barry’s best friend. Join Barry as he attempts to get Bunky back, organises a girly-screamvoice test and tries to avoid seeing his teacher kissing his gran.
Discussion points
What do you think made Barry feel like a 'loser'? How would you help him feel better?
Barry deals with some tough situations at school. Can you think of a time you faced a similar challenge? What did you do?
How do the characters in the book show their friendship to Barry?
What lessons do you think Barry learns by the end of the book?
If you could give Barry one piece of advice, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, emphasize empathy by asking your child to put themselves in Barry's shoes, encouraging a deeper understanding of his emotions and actions.
Encourage your child to discuss their own school experiences in relation to the book’s themes, fostering a personal connection with the story.
Use examples from the book to discuss the impact of teasing and bullying, and brainstorm ways to handle such situations positively.
Highlight the importance of friendship and support, asking your child to talk about how friends can help in tough times, drawing parallels with Barry's experiences.
Finish your discussion with optimistic reflections, asking your child to think about how they can use the lessons from the book in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance
Explanation: Barry Loser navigates through various comedic challenges but ultimately learns to embrace who he is despite others viewing him as different.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate their unique qualities and remain confident in who they are, even when faced with peer pressure or bullying.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Throughout the book, Barry encounters different characters who are both mean and kind to him, which teaches him to understand and share the feelings of others.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be considerate of other people's feelings and perspectives, fostering a more inclusive environment at school or in playgroups.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Barry experiences several setbacks but consistently demonstrates resilience by using humor and creativity to cope with difficult situations.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to handle challenges and setbacks in a positive way, helping them develop coping strategies for any difficulties they encounter in life.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: Barry often uses his imagination to solve problems, turning negative situations into opportunities for humor and learning.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to think creatively when faced with their own challenges, promoting problem-solving skills and innovation.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: Throughout his adventures, Barry learns the importance of true friends who support and accept him as he is.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to value and nurture friendships, learning how true friends should treat each other with respect and kindness.