Maribel's Year
What’s inside...
Celebrate the special connection between father and daughter in this gorgeously evocative picture book, recounting the year a little girl and her mother spend in America while waiting for her father to join them from the Philippines. From acclaimed author Michelle Sterling and illustrator Sarah Gonzales, a poignant story perfect for fans of Joanna Ho, Linda Sue Park, and Matt De La Peña. As the seasons change, Maribel holds onto the memories of her father, feeling his presence in the things they used to do together. As she navigates a new country, new school, and new friends, the bond between her and her father remains unshakeable, transcending the distance that separates them.
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Maribel felt when she experienced each season for the first time?
How did the changing seasons affect Maribel’s activities and friendships throughout the year?
What season would you like to share with Maribel, and what activities would you do together?
How do you think Maribel changed by the end of the year, and what did she learn from her experiences?
If you could add another season to the story, what would it be and what adventures would Maribel have?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe their feelings about each season and relate those to Maribel’s experiences in the book.
Discuss the importance of adaptability and learning new things as shown by Maribel throughout the changing seasons.
Link the story to your child’s own experiences by asking them to compare their favorite seasonal activities with those of Maribel.
Use the book’s illustrations to discuss how colors and scenery change with the seasons, enhancing sensory recognition.
Emphasize the value of friendships and new experiences, encouraging your child to explore and appreciate the diversity in the world around them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: Maribel's Year explores the theme of adapting to a new environment when Maribel and her family move to a new city. Throughout the book, Maribel learns to find comfort and excitement in her new surroundings.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to embrace change rather than fearing it, whether they are starting a new school, trying a new activity, or making new friends.
Example Lesson: Value of Perseverance
Explanation: Maribel faces several challenges throughout the year, such as struggling with new subjects in school and feeling homesick. However, she continually strives to overcome these difficulties, showcasing the importance of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of not giving up when faced with difficulties, encouraging them to persist through challenges in their academic and personal lives.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Support
Explanation: In 'Maribel's Year', the support Maribel receives from her family plays a crucial role in helping her adapt to her new life. The story highlights how her family's encouragement and understanding are vital in navigating her challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and seek support from their family during times of change or difficulty, fostering a supportive environment at home.
Example Lesson: Friendship and Social Skills
Explanation: As Maribel makes new friends in her school, she learns valuable social skills and the importance of building friendships. The interactions teach her empathy, sharing, and cooperation.
Real-World Application: The lesson encourages children to be open to making new friends and helps them understand the importance of being kind and working together with others.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness and Appreciation
Explanation: Maribel introduces aspects of her culture to her new friends and learns about theirs in return. This reciprocal exchange enhances cultural appreciation and awareness among the characters.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to be curious about and respectful towards diverse cultures, which can lead to a more inclusive attitude in real-world social interactions.