Boy Girl Boy
on Goodreads (447)
What’s inside...
Larry, Teresa, and Elliot are best friends with plans to move to California after graduation to start their real lives together. However, each friend faces personal struggles: Larry is grappling with his sexuality, Teresa is tired of being just friends with boys she loves, and Elliot feels overshadowed by his friends. This insightful story explores the challenges of being true to oneself and the complexities of friendship. The book includes an interview with the author.
Age
13-14
Length
180 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Larry
Elliot
Theresa
Discussion points
How do the friendships in the story differ from each other? What qualities make a good friend?
Each character in 'Boy Girl Boy' faces personal challenges. Can you relate to any of their experiences? Why or why not?
What are some ways the characters support each other throughout the book? How important is support in your own life?
The setting of the story is in a small town. How do you think the story would change if it was set in a big city?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book, relating them to their own experiences.
Discuss the importance of friendship and empathy, drawing parallels between the characters’ interactions and real-life situations.
Invite your child to imagine alternative scenarios for the characters. For example, ask what they think would happen if a character made a different decision.
Create a comfortable and open environment for discussion, affirming all of your child's contributions to the conversation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Friendship and loyalty
Explanation: In 'Boy Girl Boy,' the characters navigate their complex relationships, demonstrating the importance of sticking together through tough times.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value their friendships and understand the importance of supporting their friends, even when faced with challenges.
Example Lesson: Identity and self-acceptance
Explanation: The story showcases each character's journey towards accepting their unique identities, which encourages readers to embrace who they are.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children feel more comfortable in their own skin and be confident in expressing their true selves in various social situations.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonists of 'Boy Girl Boy' face various personal and collective hurdles, showing how they adapt and persevere.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain strong and resilient when encountering obstacles in their lives, understanding that persistence is key to overcoming difficulties.
Example Lesson: The importance of making choices
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters make significant decisions that affect their own lives and those around them, highlighting the consequences of one's actions.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically about the choices they make and to consider the potential impacts of their decisions on themselves and others.