St Grizzle's School for Girls, Goats and Random Boys
#1 in St Grizzle's School for Girls Series
What’s inside...
When Dani's mum gets the chance to study penguins in the Antarctic, she decides the best place for eleven-year-old Dani is a strict girls' boarding school where - uh-oh! - students wear smart uniforms that includes SKIRTS!Having failed to change Mum's mind, Dani finds herself having to say goodbye to Granny Viv, her dog Downboy and best friend Arch. But when they arrive at St Grizelda's it seems that there's been some drastic changes; gone are the uniforms and the rules, and in are chaos, anarchy and, er, goats. Surely Mum's not going to leave her at the mercy of a crazy head-butting goat, a bunch of eight-year-olds masquerading as mutant goblins and a head teacher wearing a crown of picnic cutlery?But as a homesick Dani waits for Mum to make alternative arrangements, the madness of St Grizzle's begins to warm Dani's heart.With a definite whiff of St Trinian's about it, St Grizzle's is a laugh-out-loud middle grade read by best-selling author Karen McCombie, perfect for fans of A Murder Most Unladylike and Scarlet and Ivy.
Character compass
Dani
Discussion points
What do you think about Dani's experience starting at a new school? Have you ever felt the same way when trying something new?
How do the different characters in the book handle change and challenges? Can you relate to any of their strategies?
The school has a lot of unusual aspects, like having goats! If you could add something unique to your school, what would it be?
Friendship is a central theme in the book. What do you think makes a good friend? Are there any friendships in the book that you admire?
What lesson do you think Dani learned by the end of the book? Is there a lesson you learned while reading?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own experiences related to the themes of the book, like handling changes or making new friends. This can help your child feel more comfortable and open to discussing their thoughts and feelings. Encourage them to think about how the situations in the book can be applied to their own lives, and listen actively to their responses. It’s also helpful to praise their insights, which can boost their confidence and engagement in future readings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: The story showcases characters from various backgrounds and personalities learning to coexist and collaborate in a quirky boarding school setting.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of accepting and celebrating differences in their classmates and peers, promoting inclusiveness and empathy in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: As the characters face various challenges, they learn to rely on one another, forming strong bonds and friendships.
Real-World Application: This can teach children about the significance of building supportive relationships, fostering teamwork and cooperation in group settings such as school projects or sports.
Example Lesson: Adaptability and Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters encounter unexpected situations that require creative problem solving and flexibility.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these skills to adapt to changes and challenges they face in life, enhancing their ability to think critically and solve problems effectively.
Example Lesson: Courage to Stand Up for Oneself
Explanation: The protagonist often stands up for herself and her friends, demonstrating courage and assertiveness.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to advocate for themselves and others in situations where they face peer pressure or bullying.
Example Lesson: Importance of Humor
Explanation: The light-hearted and humorous tone of the book helps characters deal with various predicaments.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of humor in overcoming difficulties, enhancing their resilience and ability to cope with stress.