Flowers in the Sky
What’s inside...
Fifteen-year-old Nina Perez leaves the Dominican Republic to live with her brother in New York, hoping for a better life. In Washington Heights, she faces a harsh reality that is far from her mother's dreams for her in the U.S. As she confronts her brother's dark secrets and struggles with displacement and loneliness, Nina discovers her own strength. Amidst these challenges, she meets a boy who changes her perspective. This powerful story explores Nina’s journey of growth and finding beauty in tragedy.
Age
12-13
Length
232 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Nina Perez
Luis
Darrio Perez
Discussion points
What do you think the flowers symbolize in Nina's life?
How do you think Nina feels when she moves to a new place, and how would you feel in her situation?
Why is it important for Nina to keep her Dominican culture alive while living in New York?
How do the different characters in the book help Nina, and what does that teach us about community and support?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the discussion, summarize the plot together to make sure your child understands the story.
Encourage your child to express their emotions about Nina's experiences, relating them to any personal experiences of change or new beginnings.
Discuss the cultural elements in the story. This could be a good opportunity to explore and compare different cultural traditions with your child.
Point out Nina's interactions with her surroundings and other characters, prompting your child to think about the importance of relationships and support in adapting to new environments.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Nina, moves from the Dominican Republic to New York City, facing numerous challenges such as adapting to a new culture and dealing with her mother's unrealistic expectations. Her journey demonstrates her ability to persevere despite difficulties.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace change and overcome obstacles in their own lives, understanding that resilience can lead to personal growth and success.
Example Lesson: The importance of family connections
Explanation: Throughout 'Flowers in the Sky,' the bond between Nina and her brother strengthens despite the physical distance between them. Their relationship highlights the importance of maintaining strong family ties.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to value and nurture relationships with their family members, understanding that these bonds provide support and love in times of change.
Example Lesson: Self-discovery and personal growth
Explanation: Nina's experience in a new city serves as a catalyst for self-discovery. By engaging with her new surroundings and the diverse people within it, she learns more about her own identity and aspirations.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore new interests and environments, learning that self-discovery is a valuable part of growing up and can help guide their future choices.
Example Lesson: Empathy and cultural awareness
Explanation: Nina's interactions with various characters in New York broaden her understanding of different cultures and lifestyles, fostering a sense of empathy and cultural sensitivity.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate the diversity around them, promoting an inclusive attitude and respect for different perspectives and backgrounds.
Example Lesson: The power of optimism
Explanation: Despite the challenges Nina faces, her hopeful outlook and determination to find beauty in her new environment, like spotting flowers in unlikely places, underline the power of optimism.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, understanding that optimism can be a powerful tool in navigating life's challenges.