Nissa's Place
#2 in Nissa Series
on Goodreads (70)
What’s inside...
A thirteen-year-old girl in Depression-era Louisiana grapples with her mother moving to Chicago, her father remarrying, and finding where she belongs. Ever since Nissa Bergen's father Ivar remarried, Nissa has felt like a stranger in her own home, clinging to her memories of her free-spirited mother, Heirah Rae, who moved to Chicago to escape the conformity of small-town Louisiana. To make matters worse, Nissa's not ready for the physical changes that are happening to her. So when Heirah asks Nissa to stay with her for a while, Nissa decides it's time for a change. But Heirah's life in Chicago painting sets for a theater is overwhelming to Nissa, and she misses her home and father in Harper. Slowly, Nissa realizes that she has to stop living for her mother and start living for herself. Ivar and Lara's visit convinces her that home is in Harper, and after a revelation in the Chicago library, Nissa discovers a way for her to stake her independence and find her place in her family and her life. Told with the lyricism that marked The Year of the Sawdust Man, Nissa's Place is a beautiful continuation of Nissa's story and a remarkable book on its own. Once you meet Nissa Bergen, you'll never forget her.
Discussion points
How do you think Nissa felt when she moved to a new place? Have you ever felt the same way?
What are some ways Nissa tried to make new friends? Which ways do you think are the best?
Why is it important to help others feel welcome?
How did Nissa's relationship with her new friends change over the course of the story?
What does this story teach us about overcoming challenges?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Nissa’s shoes, fostering empathy and understanding. Pause at key moments in the story to discuss Nissa’s emotions and decisions, making the reading experience interactive. Use the story as a springboard to share personal experiences related to moving, making new friends, or facing challenges. Reinforce the positive behaviors exhibited by characters, like kindness and perseverance, as moral takeaways from the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embrace of Diversity
Explanation: In 'Nissa's Place', the main character, Nissa, interacts with a diverse set of characters from different backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect individuals from various cultures and backgrounds, fostering a more inclusive environment at school and in their communities.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, Nissa relies on her friends for support during challenging times, highlighting the importance of building strong, supportive friendships.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to cultivate meaningful relationships, which can provide emotional support and help in overcoming personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Challenges
Explanation: Nissa faces various personal and external challenges, and her journey teaches the value of facing difficulties with bravery and resilience.
Real-World Application: Instills courage in children to confront their own obstacles, be it at school or in personal situations, with determination and fortitude.
Example Lesson: Importance of Self-Identity
Explanation: Through her adventures, Nissa learns more about herself and gains confidence in her identity, stressing the importance of self-discovery.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore and affirm their own identities, enhancing self-esteem and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Positive Impact of Kindness
Explanation: Nissa's acts of kindness throughout the story create a ripple effect, improving the lives of others around her and showing the power of goodwill.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the benefits of being kind and helpful, leading to a more harmonious and supportive community.