Silence
on Goodreads (844)
What’s inside...
Stella is a vivacious teen with a deep yearning to become an accomplished Broadway musical star. Her dreams are shattered when a freak accident renders her deaf. Struggling mightily to communicate in a world of total silence, she meets Hayden who has such a pronounced stutter she can easily read his lips because he speaks so slowly. Communication leads to connection and an unexpected romance as they learn from each other and discover their own ways to overcome setbacks, find renewed purpose and recognize their true voice.
Age
0-18
Length
320 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Stella
Hayden
Stella'S Mother
Discussion points
How do you think silence impacts the way we communicate with others?
Why do you think the author chose to portray the protagonist as being unable to speak?
Can you think of other ways, besides speaking, that people can express their feelings and thoughts?
What did you learn about the importance of listening from this story?
How did the character's journey make you feel, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the discussion, create a quiet space to help mirror the theme of silence in the book, enhancing the depth of your conversation.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and emotions about the story through drawing or writing, providing alternative means of communication that tie back to the book’s themes.
Use examples from the book to discuss the importance of empathy and understanding when communicating with others who might have different experiences or challenges.
Share a personal story about a time when silence or a lack of communication affected you, helping to bridge connections between your experiences and the character’s.
Prompt your child to consider how they might help someone who has difficulty communicating, fostering a sense of compassion and empathy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The power of silence and introspection
Explanation: The protagonist of 'Silence,' Stella, learns to navigate her new world of silence after losing her hearing. Through her journey, the book illustrates the importance of inner silence and reflection.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by finding quiet moments in their day to reflect on their feelings and thoughts, enhancing self-awareness and emotional regulation.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Stella's journey is not just about loss but also about her resilience as she learns to communicate in new ways and continues pursuing her passion for music.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to persevere through their own challenges, whether they're struggling academically, socially, or personally, encouraging them to find alternative solutions and never give up.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding diversity
Explanation: Stella's story gives readers insight into the life of someone living with a disability, fostering empathy and an understanding of the diverse challenges people face.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to embrace diversity in their communities and schools, promoting inclusiveness and empathy toward individuals who are different from themselves.