Olivia's First Term
#1 in Stage School Series
on Goodreads (256)
What’s inside...
Olivia is sad and lonely and angry - angry that she's been dumped with her sister, Eel, at her grandmother's school, and angrier still that the school turns out to be a stage school. But in the course of a turbulent first term, Olivia finds out much more than she bargained for about the theatre, friendship, enemies and herself.
Discussion points
What do you think made Olivia feel nervous about her first term at school, and how did she manage her feelings?
Can you describe a time when you tried something new like Olivia? How did it make you feel?
Why is it important to have friends who support and understand us, like Olivia found at school?
What did Olivia learn by the end of the book, and what have you learned from her story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own experiences related to starting something new, such as a school or a hobby, to make your child feel more comfortable discussing their feelings.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings by asking them how they relate to Olivia’s experiences and feelings throughout the book.
Discuss the importance of friendship and support systems, just like Olivia’s friends, and ask your child about who they consider their support at school or in other activities.
Highlight Olivia’s learning and growth through the story, and relate it to your child’s personal growth or a learning moment they’ve had.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of resilience
Explanation: Olivia displays resilience as she faces the challenges of starting at a new school and navigating unfamiliar social dynamics.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace new experiences with courage and to persevere through difficulties in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the story, Olivia learns the true meaning of friendship, realizing that it’s about quality, not quantity, and about being there for each other.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by building meaningful relationships and offering support and kindness to their peers.
Example Lesson: Importance of honesty
Explanation: Olivia comes to understand the consequences of being dishonest and learns the importance of being truthful to her friends and teachers.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to practice honesty in their daily interactions and understand that truthfulness builds trust.
Example Lesson: Embracing individuality
Explanation: Olivia's journey highlights embracing one's unique qualities and talents, despite peer pressure to conform.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to celebrate their own uniqueness and respect others' differences, fostering self-confidence and mutual respect.
Example Lesson: The power of kindness
Explanation: The narrative shows how acts of kindness, even small ones, can have a profound impact on others, transforming relationships and environments.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to be considerate and kind-hearted in their everyday actions, creating a positive community around them.