Shark Girl
#1 in Shark Girl Series
on Goodreads (3,784)
What’s inside...
On a sunny day in June, fifteen-year-old Jane Arrowood went for a swim at the beach with her family when everything changed drastically. After losing an arm to a shark attack, Jane is left grappling with her new reality and identity. As she prepares to return to school with her prosthetic arm, she faces whispers and stares from her peers, leading her to question her art, her life, and the reason behind the attack. Through poems, letters, telephone conversations, and newspaper clippings, author Kelly Bingham explores Jane's emotional and physical journey as she finds the courage to embrace her new self and move forward.
Character compass
Jane Arrowood
Michael
Jane’S Mother
Discussion points
How did Jane's life change after the shark attack, and how did she cope with those changes?
What role do Jane's friends and family play in her recovery, and how do they influence her journey?
How does Jane express her feelings through her art, and why do you think art is important to her?
What are some ways Jane shows resilience and strength throughout her story?
How did reading about Jane's experiences make you feel? Can you relate to any of her struggles or achievements?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they would feel in Jane's situation, and discuss different ways of handling challenging circumstances.
Highlight the importance of support systems by talking about how friends and family can help in tough times, just like they did for Jane.
Discuss the role of creative outlets in expressing emotions, and encourage your child to explore their own ways of expressing feelings through art or other activities.
Focus on the themes of resilience and overcoming adversity, praising Jane's strength and discussing how we can all learn from her perseverance.
Emphasize the transformation in Jane’s character from the start to the end of the book, encouraging your child to think about their own growth and development.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'Shark Girl', the protagonist, Jane, faces a life-changing event after a shark attack results in the loss of her arm. Throughout her journey, she displays immense courage and resilience as she learns to navigate her new reality.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding that challenges are a part of life, but facing them with bravery and a positive attitude can lead to personal growth and overcoming difficulties.
Example Lesson: The power of self-acceptance
Explanation: As Jane struggles with her self-image and coming to terms with her new physical limitations, she gradually learns to accept herself and her changed body.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children learn the importance of accepting themselves as they are, fostering a healthy self-image and self-esteem, regardless of external differences or challenges.
Example Lesson: Importance of support systems
Explanation: The book highlights how crucial family and friends are in Jane's recovery and adaptation. Their support plays a key role in her ability to cope and rebuild her life after the incident.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and rely on the support from their family and friends during tough times, and understand the value of being there for others in their time of need.
Example Lesson: Adaptation to change
Explanation: Jane's journey is also about adapting to the changes in her life post-attack. From learning to use her left hand to adjusting to people's reactions to her, she embodies adaptation.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children the skill of adaptability in changing circumstances, an invaluable skill throughout their education and later life.
Example Lesson: Finding new passions
Explanation: After the shark attack, Jane discovers new interests and passions that she had not considered before, showing that new paths can emerge from unexpected events.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore new hobbies and interests, especially when usual activities might be hindered, showing them that growth often happens outside of comfort zones.