Jasper John Dooley: NOT in Love
#3 of 6 in Jasper John Dooley Series
on Goodreads (93)
What’s inside...
This is the third installment in Caroline Adderson's well-reviewed, illustrated chapter book series about the adventures of the enthusiastic and extremely likable --- and poetically named --- Jasper John Dooley. Here, poor Jasper struggles to deal with the excessive attentions of his classmate Isabel, who just won't leave him alone. In the schoolyard, she badgers him and his friends Ori and Leon to play babies. In the classroom, she forces him to be her reading buddy. And, worst of all, after school, she invites him over for a playdate! When Jasper complains to his parents that he's too sick to go to her house, his dad says he must have a case of "girl-itis." However, once he arrives, Jasper is thrilled to discover Isabel has a trampoline, where he gets a "flip-floppy feeling" that is better than anything else in the world. Can Jasper find a way to keep using her trampoline and get her to stop being in love with him?This truly relatable story handles with deftness and humor the concerns and confusion elementary school children face as they try to navigate their everyday social world, particularly the issues surrounding the emerging differences between boys and girls of this age and where the lines are beginning to get drawn for their interactions with each other. It is sure to keep early readers engaged. Featuring a boy's point of view broadens the appeal. Line illustrations by Ben Clanton add depth and wit to the charming story.
Character compass
Jasper John Dooley
Ori
Discussion points
Why do you think Jasper John Dooley feels he is NOT in love? How do you think he feels about Isabel?
What are some ways Jasper tries to show he’s not interested in Isabel? Have you ever tried to avoid something you didn't like?
Jasper uses his 'NOT in Love' cap to deal with his feelings. What are some ways you deal with feelings you find confusing or overwhelming?
How do Jasper's friends and family react to his situation? What does this tell you about how they care for him?
What do you think changed Jasper's mind by the end of the book? Have you ever changed your mind about someone or something?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child how they perceive Jasper’s actions and feelings, encouraging them to relate personally with the character.
Discuss the concept of feelings, emphasizing that it's okay to feel differently about different people and situations.
Enable your child to express their feelings by using examples from the book and comparing them to their own experiences.
Highlight the role of friends and family in the book, asking your child about who they turn to when they feel confused or have strong feelings.
Encourage your child to discuss any instances where they might have changed their opinions, relating back to Jasper’s change of heart.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding emotions
Explanation: Jasper John Dooley experiences a range of emotions when he develops feelings for his friend Oriole, providing a narrative for children to understand emotional complexity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to identify and articulate their own emotions, helping them navigate friendships and feelings in school and at home.
Example Lesson: Respect for others' feelings
Explanation: As Jasper navigates his feelings for Oriole, he learns to consider her feelings and the importance of respecting them, even if they don't mirror his own.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to be mindful and respectful of how others feel, fostering empathy and understanding in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Coping with rejection
Explanation: Jasper deals with the discomfort of not having his feelings reciprocated, illustrating the process of handling rejection gracefully.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by developing resilience and learning to handle disappointment in a healthy way, skills that are crucial as they grow.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship
Explanation: Despite his feelings, Jasper values maintaining his friendship with Oriole, emphasizing that friendship is precious and should be cherished.
Real-World Application: This highlights to children the importance of preserving friendships even through difficult emotional times, promoting long-lasting relationships.