Rise Up: Ordinary Kids with Extraordinary Stories
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Rise Up: Ordinary Kids with Extraordinary Stories by Amanda Li is a collection of true stories about young people who have made a positive impact in their communities and the world. The book features 10 inspiring stories of kids who have taken action to make a difference, from a 12-year-old girl who started a non-profit organization to provide clean water in Africa to a 17-year-old boy who invented a device to help people with disabilities play music. The stories are told in an engaging and accessible way, with colorful illustrations and practical tips for kids to make a difference in their own lives. From surviving a plane crash in the jungle to striking against climate change, you won’t believe the incredible stories of the challenges these brave kids from around the world have overcome!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
122 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Which story inspired you the most, and why do you think that person's actions were extraordinary?
How do you think these kids felt when they faced challenges? What would you do in a similar situation?
What qualities do these kids possess that you admire? Can you think of ways you might demonstrate these qualities in your daily life?
If you could meet any of the kids from the book, who would it be, and what would you ask them?
How do you think working together helped these kids achieve their goals? Can you think of a time when you worked with others to solve a problem?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin by sharing your own thoughts on a story that resonated with you, making it a reciprocal exchange to ease your child into the discussion. Encourage them to draw parallels between their experiences and those in the book, fostering empathy and deeper understanding. Highlight the diversity of achievements and challenges presented in the book to help your child see the range of possibilities and responses to different situations. Use praise effectively to affirm your child’s thoughts and views, making them feel valued and heard during the discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and Persistence
Explanation: The book features inspiring stories of ordinary children who faced adversity yet persevered. Each story is a testament to the strength and persistence needed to overcome challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by not giving up when they face difficulties in school or in their personal life, understanding that persistence is key to overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Through the diverse backgrounds and struggles of the children in the stories, readers learn to empathize with experiences different from their own.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to be more considerate and understanding towards their peers who might be going through challenging times, promoting a more inclusive environment at school and at home.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: Many stories in the book illustrate children taking brave actions despite fears and uncertainties. This highlights the importance of courage in confronting fears.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to face their own fears and stand up for what is right, whether it means trying out for a school play, standing up to a bully, or defending a friend.
Example Lesson: Importance of Creativity and Innovation
Explanation: Several stories showcase children who used creative solutions to solve problems, emphasizing the value of thinking outside the box.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to use their imagination and creativity in problem-solving scenarios, whether in academic projects, group activities, or personal hobbies.
Example Lesson: Advocacy and Taking Action
Explanation: Some children in the book initiate or participate in movements for social change, showing the impact one individual can have on the community.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to engage with and contribute to their community, whether by participating in local events, starting a school project, or helping a cause they care about.