Swimming into Trouble (Julia on the Go! Book 1)
#1 of 2 in Julia on the Go! Series
What’s inside...
As a member of the Vipers Swim Team, Julia Nam spends most of her time at Mountainview Community Centre, which is like a second home to her. Her parents run the centre's sushi cafe, but Julia prefers to be in the pool swimming. Despite being the youngest swimmer on the team, she is not the slowest. Julia looks forward to Personal Best Day, an important event where swimmers can qualify for a big regional meet based on their times. However, an ear infection forces her to stay out of the water for ten days, making her ineligible to participate. Desperate to swim, Julia goes against her parents' wishes and finds herself in a difficult situation.
Discussion points
How do you think Julia felt when she faced challenges in the story? What would you do in her place?
What lessons did Julia learn during her adventures? Can you think of a time when you learned something similar?
Why is teamwork important, as shown in the book? How does working with others help Julia?
Can you think of ways Julia showed bravery? How can you show bravery in your own life?
What are some ways you can help your friends when they are in trouble, like the characters in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their personal experiences to Julia’s story, making connections that personalize the themes discussed.
Invite your child to imagine alternative scenarios within the book’s storyline, fostering creativity and deeper understanding of character motivations.
Discuss the outcomes of Julia's decisions to help your child understand cause and effect, enhancing their decision-making skills.
Praise your child’s responses to encourage their expression and ensure a positive reading experience.
Use expressive reading techniques, like different voices for each character, to make the storytelling more engaging and lively.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: In the story, Julia faces a situation where she ends up in a potentially dangerous scenario in the water. She uses quick thinking and calm decision-making to navigate her way out of trouble, demonstrating effective problem solving.
Real-World Application: Children can apply Julia's problem-solving skills in their own lives, using calm and thoughtful approaches to overcome obstacles they face at school or during play.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Julia learns the importance of being responsible, especially in unfamiliar environments. Her experience teaches her to be more aware and cautious, qualities that underline responsibility.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child's everyday life by encouraging them to take charge of their personal safety, belongings, and actions at all times.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Despite being fearful, Julia musters the courage to handle a tough situation in the water. Her bravery in facing her fears head-on is a crucial theme.
Real-World Application: Children learn that it's normal to feel scared but also how important it is to confront their fears whether it's trying out new activities, or standing up for what is right.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Throughout the book, Julia shows concern for her friends' wellbeing, understanding their fears and helping them overcome those fears.
Real-World Application: This aspect of empathy can be nurtured in children, encouraging them to be considerate of others' feelings and to support their peers in various situations.