Not the Worst Friend in the World
on Goodreads (209)
What’s inside...
Can Lou Bennett keep a secret? She'll do just about anything to prove herself to her new friend—and the best friend she betrayed—in this debut novel that is a modern-day Harriet the Spy with high emotional stakes. It's the thirty-fourth day of sixth grade at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School in Missouri, and eleven-year-old Lou wishes she could rewind time. Lou wants to go back to the ninth day of sixth grade—the day before she fought with her best friend Francie and said the terrible, horrible things she can't unsay. Or better yet, she would go back to fifth grade when Francie was still the Old Francie. Then the new girl, Cece Clark-Duncan, passes Lou a mysterious note. It says she was kidnapped. (!) If Lou can help Cece, maybe she can prove she's not the world's worst friend. But as observant Lou uncovers the complicated truth about Cece's family, she starts to panic. Can she help Cece without hurting her? Or will Lou end up losing another friend instead? Anchored by an outstanding voice and a page-turning mystery, this remarkable debut novel honors the powerful middle school friendships that can both break and heal a tender eleven-year-old heart. Perfect for fans of Fish in a Tree and My Jasper June.
Discussion points
What do you think makes someone a good friend?
How did the characters in the story show kindness or understanding to each other?
Have you ever had a misunderstanding with a friend? How did you resolve it?
What would you do if you were in the same situation as the main character?
How do you think the story would change if the characters made different choices?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what qualities they think a good friend should have. This sets a thoughtful backdrop for the themes explored in the book.
Pause at pivotal moments in the story to ask your child how they feel about the characters' decisions and actions, encouraging them to put themselves in the characters' shoes.
Discuss the resolution of the story and ask your child if they agree with the outcomes or would suggest alternative solutions.
After reading, connect the story's themes to your child’s personal experiences with friendships to deepen their understanding and empathy.
Encourage your child to draw or write about a time when they were a good friend, or when someone was a good friend to them. This reinforces positive social behaviors and reflective thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Through the character interactions, children learn the importance of understanding others' feelings and perspectives.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by being more considerate and patient with their peers during group activities or playtime.
Example Lesson: Conflict Resolution
Explanation: The story demonstrates how characters solve misunderstandings and disputes through communication, teaching children effective ways to handle conflicts.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use dialogue and understanding to resolve disputes with siblings or classmates rather than resorting to anger or avoidance.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: Through the ups and downs of the characters' relationships, the story highlights how true friends support and forgive each other.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to cherish and nurture their friendships, understanding that everyone makes mistakes and forgiveness is key to a lasting relationship.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Differences
Explanation: The diverse characters in the book with varying traits and behaviors teach children to accept and celebrate each person’s unique qualities.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children embrace diversity among their friends and classmates, promoting inclusivity and respect for others no matter how different they may appear or behave.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Accountability
Explanation: Characters in the story learn to take responsibility for their actions and understand the repercussions they have on others.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be more responsible in their daily actions and to think about how their behavior affects those around them.