The Best That I Can Be: Inspiring Words for American Girls (American Girls (Hardcover))
All-American Girl Series
What’s inside...
A touching keepsake book combines beautiful illustrations and meaningful quotes from the American Girls' stories with the lyrics to The American Girls Anthem, and includes a CD of the Anthem. Words of wisdom, courage, kindness, and hope from American girls long ago and today help bring out the best that's inside YOU! Includes CD featuring the American Girls Anthem.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What qualities do you admire most in the girls featured in this book and why?
How can you apply the inspiring words from the book in your daily life at school or with friends?
What goals would you set for yourself after reading these stories?
Can you think of someone you know who exemplifies these admirable traits? How do they do that?
What challenges do these characters face and how do they overcome them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the discussion by sharing your own personal story that relates to the book’s themes and ask your child to do the same.
Praise your child for their insights and encourage them to think of ways they can incorporate the book's messages into their own lives.
Associate the stories and characters with real-life figures or events to create a deeper connection and understanding.
Encourage your child to draw or write about their favorite character or moment from the book, explaining why they chose it.
Finish your discussion with a positive reinforcement about the importance of striving to be the best version of oneself, just like the characters in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance
Explanation: The book portrays characters who embrace their unique qualities and imperfections.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate their own individuality and feel confident in who they are, fostering self-esteem.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Stories within the book show characters facing challenges but continuing to strive for their goals.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to persist through difficulties in school or personal endeavors, understanding that effort can lead to success.
Example Lesson: Empathy and kindness
Explanation: The narrative includes instances where characters demonstrate understanding and kindness toward others.
Real-World Application: Children learn to consider the feelings of others and the impact of their actions, promoting emotional intelligence and social skills.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship
Explanation: Relationships between characters highlight the value of supportive friendships.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to build and maintain positive relationships, enhancing their social interactions and support systems.
Example Lesson: Courage to stand up for what is right
Explanation: Characters in the book often face moral dilemmas and choose to do what is right, even when it is difficult.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to uphold their values and act with integrity in real-life situations.