Island Girl: Forever Friends
#1 of 4 in Friends For A Season Series
on Goodreads (188)
What’s inside...
The beloved author begins a new series that teaches valuable lessons about friendship and growth. Each year, 13-year-old Meg visits her grandparents' farm on Sauvie's Island, Oregon. But this year, things are different, and Meg faces a season of growth. Every summer, thirteen-year-old Meg returns to the berry fields of her grandparents' farm on Sauvie's Island, Oregon. But this year, everything is different. With her mother remarried and a new baby on the way, Meg isn't quite sure where she fits in the family anymore. And now the comfortable familiarity of the farm has changed, too. There is a new girl, Tia, who obviously holds a special place in Meg's grandparents' hearts. During this season of growth, Meg faces the challenge of figuring out what life, family, and friendship are all about. In order to thrive she must learn the importance of her unique characteristics and God's plan for her life.
Discussion points
How did the friendship between the characters change throughout the story?
What do you think makes someone a good friend?
Why is it important to have friends like the ones in 'Island Girl: Forever Friends'?
If you were a character in the book, what would you have done differently?
How did the setting of the island influence the story and the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences by sharing stories of their friendships and how they navigate them.
Ask your child to describe their favorite part of the book and why it stands out to them, delving deeper into the emotions and lessons it might convey.
Discuss the importance of understanding and empathy in friendships, as demonstrated in the book.
Encourage your child to draw or create a small story about their ideal magical island, adding elements or characters from the book to bolster creativity and connection to the storyline.
Prompt your child to think about what qualities they value in a friend, linking this back to the characters and actions in 'Island Girl: Forever Friends'.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: In 'Island Girl: Forever Friends,' the protagonist develops a deep bond with a new friend, demonstrating how friendship can provide support and joy.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by being open to making new friends and nurturing existing friendships, understanding the value of having supportive relationships in their life.
Example Lesson: Resilience in facing challenges
Explanation: The story shows the characters overcoming obstacles together, highlighting how resilience can lead to growth and success.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to not give up easily and to face difficulties with determination, applying this mindset in school challenges or personal setbacks.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The characters in the book learn to understand and empathize with each other's feelings and backgrounds, fostering a compassionate attitude.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect the feelings and perspectives of others, which can improve their social interactions and create a more inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: The joy of exploration
Explanation: As the characters explore the island, they experience the thrill of discovery and learning new things.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be curious and explore the world around them, whether it’s trying out a new hobby, learning about different cultures, or engaging with nature.