Mallory in the Spotlight
#14 of 28 in Mallory Series
What’s inside...
When Mallory gets the lead in the school play, she cannot understand why her best friend Mary Ann is not just as excited as she is, but eventually she finds out--and learns who her real friends are. The world is a stage for Mallory McDonald! When Mallory tries out for a part in the school play and gets the lead, she is super excited. But not everyone shares her enthusiasm, especially her best friend Mary Ann. In fact, the more excited Mallory gets, the less excited Mary Ann becomes. Mallory can't understand why Mary Ann is acting so strange. Even though the lights are shining bright, is there something Mallory's not seeing? Can Mallory find a way to play the roles of leading lady and best friend?
Character compass
Mallory Mcdonald
Mary Ann Jenkins
Discussion points
How did Mallory handle being in the spotlight and what would you do in her situation?
What did Mallory learn about friendship throughout the story?
How do the different characters in the book show support for each other?
Why is it important to stay true to yourself, just like Mallory did?
What changes would you make in the story if you were one of the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters to life, which can help your child better connect with the story.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at various points in the book to encourage active thinking.
After reading, ask your child how they related to Mallory or any other character, fostering a connection to the book’s themes.
Encourage your child to discuss their own experiences of being in new or challenging situations, similar to Mallory.
Highlight the importance of values like honesty and loyalty depicted in the story, and relate them to real-life scenarios.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Overcoming fears
Explanation: Mallory faces her fear of public speaking when she participates in a school play.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face and overcome their own fears, whether it's speaking in front of a class or trying out a new activity.
Example Lesson: Importance of honesty
Explanation: Mallory learns to be honest after initially exaggerating her role in the play to her friends.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of truthfulness in building trust in friendships and other relationships.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Mallory collaborates with her classmates to make the school play a success, learning that working together is key.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning to work cooperatively.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: Despite setbacks during rehearsals, Mallory stays dedicated and continues to practice her lines.
Real-World Application: This example shows children the importance of perseverance in achieving goals, whether in academics, hobbies, or personal projects.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Mallory learns to understand and empathize with her friends' feelings throughout the play preparation.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be considerate and understand the perspectives of others in their daily interactions.