I Am More Than My Hair: A Young Girl's Journey with Alopecia
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
This short children's story shares the journey of a young girl as she experiences alopecia for the first time. Through her relationship with her mother, she learns about her condition. She comes to understand the power of self-acceptance and that beauty is more than hair. This story is perfect for children with alopecia or those who want to learn more about how alopecia can affect others.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-18
Length
30 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think losing her hair made the main character feel? Have you ever felt the same way?
What qualities make someone a good friend? How can you be a good friend to someone who is feeling different or left out?
What are some ways the main character showed strength and courage? Can you think of a time when you had to be brave?
Do you think the way people look is the most important thing about them? What are some things that are more important than appearance?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story and relate it to their own experiences. Validate their feelings and provide comfort. Focus on the qualities that make each person unique and special beyond physical appearance. Share personal stories where you faced challenges and how you overcame them, emphasizing empathy and resilience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance
Explanation: The protagonist learns to accept her alopecia, embracing her unique appearance rather than feeling ashamed or different.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to accept and love themselves as they are, fostering self-esteem and confidence in their own skin.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: As the protagonist shares her experiences, it encourages peers around her to understand and empathize with her situation.
Real-World Application: Children can practice empathy by listening to and respecting the feelings and experiences of others, helping to build deeper, more understanding relationships.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Despite challenges and initial discomfort, the young girl demonstrates resilience as she navigates social interactions and comes to terms with her condition.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to confront personal and social challenges without giving up, using their inner strength to overcome difficulties and grow stronger.
Example Lesson: Awareness and Inclusion
Explanation: The book raises awareness about alopecia and encourages the inclusion of those who might look different.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of inclusivity, promoting an environment where everyone feels valued and accepted regardless of their differences.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: The main character shows courage by openly discussing alopecia and not hiding her condition, even when it feels difficult.
Real-World Application: Children can use this lesson by facing their own fears and standing up for themselves or others, learning to vocalize their thoughts and feelings courageously.