Cross My Heart
Picture Puffin Books Series
What’s inside...
Julie's mother is seriously ill, causing Julie great distress. A potential life-saving operation is discovered, and while her mother is hospitalized, Julie and her father anxiously await news of the procedure's outcome. This heart operation is one of the first of its kind in British Columbia. The book also beautifully depicts the people and scenery of the region, incorporating historically accurate details about Pemberton and Vancouver.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-10
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the promise made between the characters? How do you feel about keeping promises?
How did the characters handle their challenges? What would you do in a similar situation?
What did the story teach you about friendship and trust?
Which character did you relate to the most and why?
How do you think the story would change if it happened in today's world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the events in the book, fostering a deeper understanding of the themes. Ask open-ended questions to stimulate critical thinking and personal connection to the characters' decisions and actions. Connect themes from the book to real-life situations your child might encounter, enhancing their problem-solving skills. Praise your child for their insights, bolstering their confidence and enthusiasm for discussions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Honesty
Explanation: In 'Cross My Heart,' the protagonist learns the value of being truthful even when it's difficult. The storyline revolves around the consequences of lying and the eventual relief and positive outcome when the truth is told.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding that being honest improves relationships and builds trust. They can practice telling the truth in their daily interactions, even when they fear the consequences.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: The book illustrates how friendships can grow stronger through challenges and forgiveness. The characters face obstacles that test their friendship, but they learn to support and forgive each other, strengthening their bond.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to nurture their friendships through ups and downs. They learn the importance of supporting friends in difficult times and forgiving them for their mistakes.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Fears
Explanation: Throughout 'Cross My Heart,' the characters encounter situations that are scary or uncomfortable. The story shows how they gather the courage to face these fears, highlighting personal growth.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to face their own fears, whether it’s speaking in front of the class, trying out for a sports team, or standing up for what is right, thereby growing in confidence and resilience.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: The narrative clearly outlines how each action taken by the characters leads to specific consequences. This helps in understanding how choices directly affect outcomes.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to think about the potential outcomes before acting, which is crucial for making thoughtful decisions in real-life situations.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: As the characters in the book navigate their problems, they learn to see things from others' perspectives, fostering a sense of empathy and mutual respect.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of considering others' feelings and viewpoints, which is essential for building strong, empathetic relationships in their own lives.