How to Stay Invisible
on Goodreads (691)
What’s inside...
In 'How to Stay Invisible,' Maggie C. Rudd tells the story of twelve-year-old Raymond Hurley, who is abandoned by his free-wheeling parents and forced to survive in the woods behind his middle school with only his dog, Rosie, and a survival guide. As winter approaches and food becomes scarce, Raymond befriends a coyote and learns that survival depends not only on his wilderness skills but also on the friendships he forms with people and animals. This middle-grade novel combines the themes of survival, friendship, and the wonders of nature in a heartfelt adventure.
Age
10-14
Length
240 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What would you do if you had the power to become invisible?
How do you think the main character feels when they are invisible?
Can you think of a time when you wanted to be unseen? What would you have done differently if no one could see you?
How did the character change by the end of the story? What did they learn about being invisible?
Do you think being invisible would solve problems or create new ones?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child how they interpreted the story and if they could relate to the feelings of the character.
Discuss the moral or lesson behind the story and how it can apply to real-life situations, emphasizing empathy and understanding.
Encourage your child to imagine and describe a day in their life if they were invisible, enhancing creative thinking.
Validate their feelings and perspectives to foster an open and comfortable discussion atmosphere.
Link the theme of invisibility to the concept of privacy and personal space, introducing more profound social values.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: In the story, the protagonist learns that staying invisible is easier when being truthful to oneself and others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding the value of honesty in building trust and forging stronger relationships with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Respecting others' privacy
Explanation: The book showcases scenarios where the main character must respect others' boundaries to maintain invisibility.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the significance of respecting personal space and privacy, encouraging them to be considerate of others' feelings and needs.
Example Lesson: The power of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, the protagonist faces challenges but remains committed to the goal of learning to stay invisible.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to embrace a never-give-up attitude towards their goals and difficulties, persisting despite obstacles.
Example Lesson: Understanding consequences
Explanation: The story delves into the consequences of the protagonist's actions while invisible, both good and bad.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to think ahead about the potential outcomes of their actions, helping them make more thoughtful decisions.
Example Lesson: Empathy and kindness
Explanation: Interactions in the story highlight the importance of treating others with kindness, even when unseen.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to always consider others' feelings and to act with empathy and kindness, regardless of whether someone is watching.