Happy Valentine's Day, Dolores
#7 in Dolores Series
on Goodreads (108)
What’s inside...
Dolores has agreed to stop 'borrowing' things from her older sister Faye's dresser, but then she discovers a special Valentine's Day necklace there. Despite knowing she shouldn't, her curiosity gets the better of her and she decides to 'borrow' the singing froggie necklace. When the necklace goes missing, Dolores must go to hilarious extremes to make things right, even enlisting the help of her cat, Duncan. This gift book filled with humor and heart teaches the importance of giving as well as taking.
Character compass
Dolores
Faye
Discussion points
What do you think Dolores felt when she tried to keep the secret about the Valentine’s surprise?
Why is it important to think about other people's feelings when we make decisions?
How would you have solved the problem Dolores faced in the story?
What does this story teach us about the meaning of Valentine’s Day?
How can we show love and appreciation to our family and friends every day, not just on special occasions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Dolores’ shoes and explore her emotions throughout the story. Ask how they might feel in similar situations.
Discuss the importance of honesty and empathy, relating them to personal experiences your child may have had.
Highlight the significance of special occasions like Valentine’s Day, but also stress the importance of showing love and care every day.
Use examples from the book to discuss the consequences of actions and the importance of considering other people’s feelings.
End the conversation by planning a small family activity that mirrors the theme of love and appreciation, like making cards or baking together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Honesty
Explanation: In 'Happy Valentine's Day, Dolores,' the protagonist, Dolores, faces consequences after sneaking a peek at her sister’s diary. This scenario emphasizes the importance of honesty and respecting others' privacy.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of being honest and respecting personal boundaries within their family and friendships.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Dolores learns the responsibility that comes with fixing her mistakes after her actions hurt others. The story follows her efforts to make amends, teaching children about accountability.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this by learning to own up to their actions and make efforts to correct their wrongdoings in daily life.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The book showcases Dolores experiencing remorse and understanding the pain her actions caused. This helps children grasp the perspective and feelings of others.
Real-World Application: This lesson aids children in developing empathy, encouraging them to consider how their actions affect others, whether at school or home.
Example Lesson: Creative Problem-Solving
Explanation: Dolores uses her creativity to craft a heartfelt apology, demonstrating problem-solving in a unique way that makes up for her mistake.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think creatively to solve problems and mend relationships in their own lives, using their unique talents and skills.