Girl on Fire
illustrations by
on Goodreads (1,656)
What’s inside...
Girl on Fire is a memoir by singer-songwriter Alicia Keys, published in 2012. The book provides a personal and introspective look into Keys' life, from her childhood in Hell's Kitchen, New York, to her rise to fame as a musician. It explores themes such as self-discovery, empowerment, and the pursuit of passions. Keys shares her experiences in the music industry, personal relationships, and struggles, along with advice and inspiration for readers. The memoir also includes her lyrics and poetry, offering a powerful and uplifting glimpse into the life of a talented artist, inspiring readers to find their own inner strength and creativity. Additionally, Girl on Fire is a young adult graphic novel about a fourteen-year-old girl named Lolo Wright, who discovers her telekinetic powers when a cop mistakenly pulls a gun on her brother. The novel, illustrated by Brittney Williams and co-written by Andrew Weiner, follows Lolo as she navigates family drama, the threat of a dangerous dealer named Skin who wants to use her powers, and the sudden return of her mother. It portrays Lolo's journey of self-discovery and bravery as she stands up for her neighborhood and loved ones.
Age
10-13
Length
224 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the main character's journey make you feel?
What challenges did the protagonist face and how did she overcome them?
Can you relate to the feelings or experiences of the character? Why?
What is one lesson the story teaches us?
If you were in the protagonist's shoes, what would you have done differently?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, highlighting both positive and negative aspects.
Ask your child to draw parallels between the book’s scenarios and their own life experiences, fostering deeper personal connections.
Discuss the protagonist’s decisions and their consequences to enhance critical thinking and moral reasoning.
Praise your child’s responses to encourage open communication and confidence in expressing their viewpoints.
After reading, suggest your child writes a short story or a diary entry from the protagonist’s perspective to deepen understanding and empathy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empowerment
Explanation: The protagonist of 'Girl on Fire' demonstrates courage and determination throughout her journey, overcoming obstacles and standing up for her beliefs.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace their own strengths and stand up for what they believe in, whether in school or within their community.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Despite facing numerous challenges, the main character perseveres and remains focused on her goals, showcasing the power of resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of persevering through difficult times and not giving up on their dreams, even when faced with setbacks.
Example Lesson: Self-Identity
Explanation: The book highlights the journey of self-discovery as the protagonist learns more about herself and her capabilities.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore and accept their own identities and to appreciate the unique qualities that make them special.
Example Lesson: Compassion
Explanation: The protagonist shows compassion and empathy towards others, which plays a key role in her relationships throughout the book.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of being considerate and kind to others, promoting a sense of empathy and community.