Piecing Me Together
on Goodreads (26,293)
What’s inside...
A timely and powerful story about a teen girl, Jade, from a poor neighborhood striving for success, who accepts a scholarship to a mostly-white private school and a mentorship program. The story explores friendships, race, privilege, and identity as Jade navigates the challenges of opportunities that feel more demeaning than helpful, and her struggles to show her mentors the reality of her world and the ways to make a real difference. Acclaimed author Renée Watson delicately navigates the complex themes of this compelling and thoughtful story that has won a Newbery Honor and Coretta Scott King Author Award.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
11-13
Length
288 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Jade's art help her understand her world and her own identity?
What role do mentors and role models play in our lives according to Jade's experiences?
How do Jade's relationships influence her views on race, success, and friendship?
In what ways do you think Jade changed from the beginning to the end of the story, and what prompted those changes?
What does the concept of being 'pieced together' mean to you personally after reading this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts on Jade’s character, focusing on her resilience and creativity.
Discuss the importance of role models and mentors, asking your child about figures in their own lives who guide and support them.
Pose questions about the challenges Jade faces, helping your child draw parallels to any similar experiences they may have encountered.
Highlight Jade’s growth throughout the book, prompting your child to think about times they have faced and overcome challenges.
Reflect on the book’s title and its symbolism in Jade’s life, facilitating a deeper conversation about how we all are 'pieced together' from our experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of self-awareness and personal growth
Explanation: The protagonist, Jade, grapples with understanding her identity and the world around her. Throughout the book, she grows by learning from her experiences and the people she meets.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to reflect on their thoughts and actions, helping them to grow and adapt in their own lives.
Example Lesson: The value of mentorship and support networks
Explanation: Jade benefits from the support and guidance of her mentor, which plays a crucial role in her personal development.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to seek out mentors and supportive communities, understanding that it's okay to seek help and guidance.
Example Lesson: Understanding and combating societal stereotypes
Explanation: Jade confronts and challenges the stereotypes and labels placed on her by society, striving to define herself on her own terms.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to critically evaluate societal labels and to form their own identity, promoting self-confidence and resilience.
Example Lesson: The significance of embracing cultural diversity
Explanation: The story portrays the rich cultural backgrounds of various characters and how these backgrounds enrich their lives.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and celebrate diversity, understanding that everyone's unique background contributes to the richness of our communities.