Chicken Friend
on Goodreads (46)
What’s inside...
Becca and her eccentric family have recently moved to a quaint village, and she is struggling to adjust to the changes and misses her old friends. In an effort to fit in, she befriends Jazz and Mel, two cool girls in the village who seem more mature. Eager to impress them, Becca invites their group to her 12th birthday party and convinces her parents to stay away. However, the party spirals out of control. Meanwhile, her parents have decided to homeschool their children and raise chickens, adding to Becca's challenges of adapting to the new lifestyle. She also hides her diabetes from her new friends, complicating her efforts to find acceptance in her new life.
Discussion points
What do you think makes the chicken and the main character become such good friends?
How do you think the chicken felt when it was lost? How do you know?
What would you have done if you were in the main character's shoes when they found the chicken?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone and made a new friend? How did that make you feel?
Why do you think friendship is important in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to convey the emotions of the characters, making the story more relatable and engaging for your child.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next in the story. This encourages them to think critically and stay engaged.
Relate the story's themes to your child’s real-life experiences. For example, discuss any instances where they made unexpected friends or helped someone in need.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite scene from the book. This can help deepen their understanding and appreciation of the story.
After reading, ask your child to summarize the story in their own words. This helps reinforce comprehension and recall.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: The narrative showcases the protagonist navigating various challenges with the help of their friends, illustrating the value of supportive relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to foster and appreciate friendships, understanding how collaboration and support can help overcome difficulties in real life.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: As the protagonist encounters intimidating scenarios, they learn to muster courage with the encouragement of their friends, highlighting bravery in the face of fear.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their own fears and understand that it's okay to be scared, but it’s important to try and overcome those fears with the support of loved ones.
Example Lesson: Embracing differences
Explanation: The story includes a diverse set of characters, each with unique traits, teaching the protagonist the value of diversity and acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by embracing diversity in their own lives, learning to appreciate what makes each individual unique and special.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, the main characters come across various obstacles that they solve through teamwork and clever thinking.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to apply critical thinking and collaboration in their daily activities and challenges.
Example Lesson: The joy of adventure
Explanation: The book’s plot revolves around an exciting adventure, showing how exploring and trying new things can be rewarding and enriching.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to explore the world around them, engage in new activities and learn from each experience, fostering a sense of curiosity and adventure.