Everybody Jam
on Goodreads (455)
What’s inside...
Danny lives on a cattle station in the middle of the Australian outback, where everyone’s getting ready for the annual muster. But this year, everything is different: because Danny’s beloved older brother Jonny has died in a farm accident, and nobody talks about it; because his fourteen-year-old sister is pregnant, and about to be packed off to Alice Springs in disgrace; because his mother can’t cope, and has decided to hire a housegirl… and what they get is a wide-eyed English backpacker called Liz. She has no idea what she’s let herself in for. Neither do they.
Age
0-14
Length
336 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Danny Dawson
Sissy Dawson
Liz
Mum Dawson
Dad Dawson
Discussion points
What do you think Danny learned about family and responsibility throughout the story?
How did the setting of the Australian outback affect the characters and the plot?
Why do you think the author chose the title 'Everybody Jam'? What does it signify in the story?
Can you relate to any of the challenges that Danny faces? What would you have done differently?
How do the characters in the book show courage or strength? Can you give some examples?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the characters’ decisions, and discuss the complexities of making tough choices.
Use examples from the book to talk about the importance of family and how everyone plays a role in supporting each other.
Discuss the unique aspects of living in the outback and how the environment influences the lifestyle and behavior of the characters.
Highlight moments in the book where characters have to overcome obstacles, and relate these to personal experiences or hypothetical scenarios to foster empathy and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The protagonist, Danny, learns to take responsibility for his actions and the outcomes. This is shown through his daily tasks on the family farm and his interactions with family members.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking charge of small duties at home, like cleaning their room or taking care of a pet, learning that their actions directly impact their environment and those around them.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Throughout 'Everybody Jam', Danny faces various changes and challenges, from family dynamics to environmental issues, showcasing his ability to adapt.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of being flexible and adapting to changes, whether it be switching to a new school, dealing with a new family member, or any other changes in their life.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Danny's relationships with family and friends in the book highlight the importance of understanding and sharing the feelings of others, especially in his bond with his brother.
Real-World Application: Children learn to recognize emotions in others and respond appropriately, fostering better relationships and social interactions at school and in play.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: In facing the harsh realities of rural life and family issues, Danny exhibits courage, making tough decisions and standing up for what he believes is right.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be brave in their own lives, whether it's standing up to a bully, trying out for a sports team, or defending their own views.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family
Explanation: The book emphasizes the value of family unity and support during challenging times as seen through the tight-knit dynamics of Danny's family.
Real-World Application: This lesson can remind children to appreciate their family members, support each other, and work together to overcome obstacles.