Scarlet Ibis
What’s inside...
Scarlet's used to looking after her autistic brother, Red, telling him stories about birds in Trinidad to comfort him. When a fire separates them into different foster homes, Scarlet is determined to find her way back to him. Despite her challenging circumstances with her depressed mom and absent dad, Scarlet holds onto her dream of reuniting with Red, using her knowledge of birds to guide her. As she navigates her complex emotions and the challenges of foster care, she remains resolute in her mission to find her brother and not let anything stand in her way.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-14
Length
224 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Scarlet felt when she had to take care of her brother? How would you feel in her situation?
What does the bird, the Scarlet Ibis, symbolize in the story? Why do you think it was important?
Why is the theme of responsibility important in the book? Can you think of a time when you had to take responsibility for something important?
How do the characters change throughout the book? Which character's journey did you find most compelling and why?
What did you learn about the challenges families can face? How can we support each other during tough times?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the discussion by sharing your own thoughts on the book’s themes and asking your child for their initial reactions.
Encourage empathy by asking your child to put themselves in the shoes of different characters and explore their feelings and decisions.
Link themes from the book to real-life situations your child might relate to, such as taking care of siblings or helping friends.
Ask open-ended questions that require more than a yes or no answer to foster deeper understanding and critical thinking.
Praise your child’s responses and insights to boost their confidence in expressing their ideas and thoughts.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Care
Explanation: In 'Scarlet Ibis', the protagonist, Scarlet, takes on the responsibility of caring for her younger brother, Red, showcasing her commitment and sense of duty.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of looking after family members and taking responsibilities seriously, helping them develop a sense of accountability and empathy in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Adaptation to Change
Explanation: Throughout the book, Scarlet and her family face various changes, including moving to a new place. The story explores how they adapt to these new circumstances.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that change is a part of life, and adapting to new environments or situations is crucial for growth and development.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: The preservation of a habitat for the Scarlet Ibis is a central theme in the book, emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by developing an awareness and appreciation for nature and learning about the impacts of human activities on different ecosystems.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Scarlet shows resilience in the face of challenges, including dealing with her family’s struggles and her own personal conflicts.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of perseverance and resilience, encouraging them to remain strong and hopeful even during difficult times.
Example Lesson: Value of Community Support
Explanation: The book highlights how neighbors and community members come together to support Scarlet’s family, demonstrating the power of community care.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of supporting and being involved in their community, understanding that collective efforts can lead to positive outcomes for everyone involved.