Being Impossible
on Goodreads (27)
What’s inside...
Twelve year old Logan already feels like the odd one out, the awkward one of the family, and when everyone abandons her to the mercy of a skeleton-thin housekeeper and a hate-filled parrot, she decides to strike back - by becoming impossible. But then she meets Tiff - a truly impossible cat, who can talk, cook, and play the piano. Tiff helps Logan to change her life, not by behaving impossibly, but by doing what everyone else is convinced is impossible. A warm, funny and emotional novel which introduces Tiff - a truly amazing and endearing cat who is able to help families to resolve their problems.
Age
4-8
Length
256 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the main character's journey make you feel and what parts of their story can you relate to?
What does being 'impossible' mean to you and why?
What are some challenges that the main character faced and how did they overcome them?
How did the friendships in the book change or grow throughout the story?
If you could give the main character advice, what would you tell them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the conversation by sharing your own thoughts on the book, highlighting aspects that resonated with you to create an open, sharing atmosphere.
Encourage empathy by asking your child to think about how they would feel in the main character's situation.
Discuss the book's challenges and solutions, relating them to real-life scenarios your child might encounter to make the conversation relevant.
Ask open-ended questions that invite more than yes or no responses to encourage critical thinking and personal reflection.
Praise your child for their thoughts and insights, reinforcing that their opinion is valuable and respected.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing uniqueness
Explanation: The book illustrates the importance of recognizing and celebrating differences among individuals, showcasing that being unique is a strength.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate their own distinct qualities and those of others, fostering an environment of acceptance and inclusivity in schools and communities.
Example Lesson: Resilience in facing challenges
Explanation: The protagonist encounters various obstacles that seem impossible at first, but through perseverance they overcome them, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this by not giving up in the face of difficulties, whether it be challenging homework, learning new skills, or dealing with social situations.
Example Lesson: Importance of empathy
Explanation: The story highlights the protagonist's ability to understand and share the feelings of others, underscoring the value of empathy.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the significance of considering others' feelings and perspectives, which can lead to more harmonious interactions at school and at home.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters face complex situations that require clever thinking and strategy to resolve.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to approach problems thoughtfully and creatively, enhancing their cognitive abilities and decision-making skills.