Marisol McDonald Doesn't Match / Marisol McDonald no combina
#1 in Marisol McDonald Series
What’s inside...
Marisol McDonald, a biracial Peruvian-Scottish-American girl, embraces her unique identity despite not fitting into conventional categories. With flaming red hair, nut-brown skin, and a love for mixing polka dots with stripes, Marisol confidently navigates a world that struggles to understand her. Author Monica Brown, drawing from her own diverse heritage, crafts a lively story celebrating individuality, with vivid illustrations by Sara Palacios. The book illustrates how Marisol's seemingly mismatched characteristics make perfect sense to her, even if others are confused by it. Through lively prose and engaging illustrations, the story portrays Marisol's unapologetic confidence in her identity, encouraging readers to embrace their own uniqueness.
Discussion points
Why do you think Marisol likes to mix and match things that other people don't think go together?
How do you feel when someone doesn't understand your unique choices, just like Marisol?
What makes you unique from your friends, and why is that special?
How did Marisol handle situations when others questioned her choices?
Can you think of a time when you mixed things that others thought didn’t match? How did that make you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about uniqueness and identity as discussed in the book.
Use examples from Marisol's story to talk about the importance of self-expression and being true to oneself.
Ask your child to relate personal experiences where they felt different and discuss the outcomes.
Highlight the way Marisol embraces her mixed heritage and encourage your child to talk about their own heritage and what they love about it.
Reinforce that everyone has unique traits and that diversity should be celebrated, just like in Marisol’s story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Individuality
Explanation: Marisol McDonald, with her mixed Peruvian-Scottish-American heritage and her unique taste in fashion and hobbies, teaches children that being different is something to celebrate.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and express their own unique traits and characteristics, fostering a strong sense of self-worth and confidence.
Example Lesson: The importance of self-acceptance
Explanation: Through the character of Marisol, who is initially conflicted about her mismatched identity but learns to embrace it joyfully, the narrative highlights the value of accepting oneself as they are.
Real-World Application: Children will understand the significance of self-acceptance and are encouraged to be true to themselves in all aspects of life.
Example Lesson: Respecting diversity
Explanation: The book showcases various cultures and lifestyles through Marisol’s mixed background, promoting an understanding and respect for diversity among children.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to be more accepting and inclusive of peers who may come from different cultural or social backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Creativity and expression
Explanation: Marisol’s unique way of dressing and her creative interests highlight the importance of creative expression as a form of individuality.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to explore and engage in creative activities that help them express their individuality and feelings.
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: Despite feeling out of place, Marisol continues to stay true to herself, demonstrating resilience. This teaches children the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of sticking to their beliefs and being resilient, even when they face opposition or feel different from others.