#6 in Dork Diaries Series
Dork Diaries Tales from a NotSoGraceful Ice Princess
on Goodreads (32,325)
What’s inside...
The protagonist, Nikki Maxwell, enters an ice skating competition to help raise money for an animal shelter, but finds herself going head-to-head with her rival, Mackenzie Hollister. Nikki must learn to balance her school life, friendships, and her new role as an ice princess.
Character compass
Discussion points
How do you think Nikki felt when she faced challenges on the ice? Can you relate to her feelings?
What did you learn about the importance of teamwork and friendship from Nikki's experiences?
How do the illustrations enhance the story for you? Do they help you understand the characters better?
If you were in Nikki's shoes, how would you handle the situation with her rival, Mackenzie?
What is one lesson you would take from Nikki’s adventures in this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Initiate the conversation gently, maybe after reading a chapter together. Show interest in their opinions and feelings about the book. Discuss not just the plot, but also the emotions and decisions of the characters. Relate topics from the book to real-life situations your child may face or has faced. This nurtures deeper understanding and connection.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In the book, protagonist Nikki Maxwell learns to understand and empathize with her rival, Mackenzie, shedding light on the importance of seeing things from another's perspective.
Real-World Application: Children can use this lesson to navigate their own social environments more thoughtfully, understanding peers' feelings and viewpoints to foster more inclusive interactions.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Resilience
Explanation: Throughout the story, Nikki faces various challenges in her quest to help raise money for an animal shelter, which teaches the value of persistence and not giving up in the face of difficulties.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to persist in achieving their own goals, whether it involves school projects or personal endeavors, reinforcing the idea that effort leads to success.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Nikki collaborates with her friends to organize a charity event, exemplifying how teamwork can lead to better results and more creative solutions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in group activities or team sports, learning that working together can achieve outcomes that might be unattainable individually.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Initiative
Explanation: Nikki takes on the responsibility of rescuing the animals and the initiative to find a way to help them, showing the importance of taking action when needed.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of taking responsibility in their daily tasks and being proactive in helping others, fostering a sense of agency and community service.