#6 in Middle School Series
Middle School Save Rafe!
on Goodreads (3,248)
What’s inside...
Middle School Save Rafe! is the story of a young boy named Rafe Khatchadorian who must face the reality of being held back and sent to 'summer school' at the local middle school. As he navigates school life with teachers and students who are less than thrilled to be there, Rafe and his imaginary friend Leo try their best to make it a thrilling adventure with their 'Operation R.A.F.E' - a secret mission to defy the rules of the school in the most humorous and imaginative ways possible. All their antics add up to an unforgettable summer school session.
Why read this book
- Adventurous narrative enhances cognitive and imaginative skills.
- Encourages resilience through relatable middle school challenges.
- Highlights importance of friendship and support systems.
- Engaging and motivational for reluctant readers.
The Big Picture
- Resilience through overcoming challenges.
- Importance of persistence and hard work.
- Building self-confidence from personal struggles.
Diversity & Representation
- Diverse characters reflect real-world middle school demographics.
- Promotes inclusion through varied social and cultural interactions.
- Illustrates challenges and achievements of diverse student backgrounds.
Book in series
#6
Age
10-12
Length
288 pages
Text complexity
intermediate
Character Compass
Discussion points
How do you think Rafe's experiences at school compare to your own? What would you do differently if you were in his shoes?
Rafe faces many challenges in the story. Which challenge do you think was hardest for him and why?
What role do Rafe's friends and family play in helping him navigate middle school? Can you relate to having support from your friends or family during tough times?
How does Rafe change from the beginning to the end of the book? What do you think caused those changes?
What did you learn from this story that you can apply to your own school life or relationships?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about Rafe’s situations and draw parallels to their life to foster empathy and relate the content to real-world experiences.
Use open-ended questions that prompt deeper thinking and connection, rather than yes or no answers, to engage your child in a more meaningful discussion.
Discuss the support system Rafe has in the book. Highlight the importance of support in tackling challenges and ask your child about their own support system.
Reflect on Rafe's growth throughout the book and ask your child to think about times when they have faced challenges and grown from them, reinforcing the book's themes of resilience and change.
What parents love
Great mix of humor and life lessons.
Addresses bullying in an understandable way.
Captivating story, my child couldn't put it down.
Promotes resilience and self-belief in kids.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: Rafe Khatchadorian has to tackle a series of daunting challenges at an outdoor survival camp to prove himself and gain re-entry into his school. His persistence despite difficulties showcases the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face academic and social challenges with determination and not give up easily, applying this resilience to overcoming obstacles in school or in their personal lives.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the survival camp, Rafe realizes the significance of working together and building friendships, which play a crucial role in overcoming the tasks set before him.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to value and nurture friendships and understand how collaboration and support can help solve problems and enhance their experiences in group activities or team projects.
Example Lesson: Self-discovery and personal growth
Explanation: As Rafe encounters various trials, he learns more about his strengths and weaknesses, leading to personal growth and self-understanding.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to try new activities and face new challenges, which can be instrumental in developing a better understanding of themselves and fostering personal growth.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: Rafe addresses his fears head-on at the camp, demonstrating courage which is pivotal in his development and success in the story.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to confront their own fears, whether it’s speaking in front of the class, trying out for a sports team, or standing up against bullying, thereby building their confidence and courage.