Shining On: 11 Star Authors' Illuminating Stories
on Goodreads (69)
What’s inside...
In this thoughtful and engaging collection, 11 acclaimed authors explore the highs and lows of growing up and shining on in the face of obstacles. A parent's departure, a sister's illness, a cheerleader's breakup, a family's secrets . . . these stories sensitively capture the challenges—and triumphs—of finding the way to a bright tomorrow. Featuring powerful stories by Lois Lowry, Meg Rosoff, Meg Cabot, Melvin Burgess, Sue Limb, and more. A portion of the money generated from the sale of this book will benefit CureSearch National Childhood Cancer Foundation and Children's Oncology Group, partners in the search for a cure for childhood cancer.
Age
0-15
Length
176 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the stories in 'Shining On' make you feel? Which story resonated with you the most and why?
What themes did you notice in the stories? How do these themes relate to your own life or experiences?
Can you think of a time when you faced a challenge similar to a character in the book? How did you handle it?
If you could meet any of the characters, who would it be and what would you ask them?
Which author's style did you enjoy the most and what did you like about it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about each story, validating their thoughts and emotions as they relate to the book.
Draw connections between the themes in the book and your child’s daily life to make the reading experience more relevant and engaging.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings for their favorite stories to foster creativity and critical thinking.
Discuss the moral lessons in the stories, and relate them to real-world scenarios to help your child navigate their own ethical decisions.
Create a mini-book club atmosphere, maybe even inviting siblings or friends to read the book and share in the discussion, enhancing social skills and different perspectives.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The diverse stories in 'Shining On' give readers a glimpse into varied life experiences, encouraging them to understand and feel with the characters.
Real-World Application: Children can use this understanding to better relate to peers who may come from different backgrounds or have different perspectives.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Characters in the collection often face and overcome personal challenges, demonstrating the importance of perseverance and resilience.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to persist through their own difficulties, whether they are academic, social, or personal.
Example Lesson: Creative Problem Solving
Explanation: Several stories in the book showcase characters inventing unique solutions to their problems, underlining the value of innovative thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this approach in school projects or in resolving conflicts with siblings and friends.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: Many of the stories emphasize building and maintaining friendships, even in tough times.
Real-World Application: This underscores the role of supportive relationships in personal growth, helping children appreciate and cultivate friendships in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Moral Courage
Explanation: Characters are often depicted standing up for what is right, despite the consequences, which illustrates the concept of moral courage.
Real-World Application: Children learn to act according to their principles, even when it's not the easy or popular choice.