Go for It, Fen! (Hippo Cafe Club)
#1 in Sister's Club Series
on Goodreads (77)
What’s inside...
Fen and her friends are fed up with being poor, so she decides to try to get them all jobs in her aunt's cafe. Fen sets her heart on the Café Club, and she won't let anything, including parents and homework, stand in her way.
Discussion points
What do you think Fen felt when she faced challenges? Can you describe a time you felt the same?
How did Fen’s friends help her? Why is teamwork important?
What does it mean to you to 'Go for It' like Fen did?
How do you think the story would change if Fen made different choices?
What's your favorite part of the story, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing Fen's feelings and choices, relate them to your child's personal experiences to deepen their understanding and empathy.
Encourage your child to think creatively by asking what they would do if they were in Fen’s situation.
Highlight the importance of perseverance and friendship as demonstrated in the book to teach valuable life lessons.
Use a warm and curious tone to make the discussion enjoyable and open, allowing your child to express their thoughts freely.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Fen shows determination and resilience as she endeavors to solve the mystery at the Hippo Cafe, inspiring readers to pursue their goals persistently.
Real-World Application: Children can apply the concept of perseverance in their daily tasks, such as completing homework or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the story, Fen collaborates with her friends to uncover clues, emphasizing the importance of working together to achieve a common goal.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice teamwork in group activities at school or in sports, learning to value each team member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: Fen uses her problem-solving skills to piece together information, promoting critical thinking and analytical skills among young readers.
Real-World Application: Children can use critical thinking to solve puzzles, answer questions in class, or make informed decisions during play.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: As Fen interacts with different characters, she shows understanding and kindness, teaching children the importance of considering others' feelings.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in the way children interact with peers and family, promoting a more empathetic and supportive environment.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Fen faces her fears when confronting challenges at the cafe, which serves as an encouragement for young readers to face their own fears.
Real-World Application: Children learn to embrace challenges, whether it be trying out for a school play, making new friends, or standing up for what is right.