The Crossing
Point (Scholastic Inc.) Series
on Goodreads (1,270)
What’s inside...
A critically acclaimed tearjerker from a master storyteller: On one side of the border is brutality and heartache; on the other side--a new life. 14-year-old Manny is an orphan in Juarez, Mexico. He competes with his bigger, meaner rivals for the coins American tourists throw off the bridge between Texas and his town. Across that heavily guarded bridge await a different world and a better existence. On the night when Manny dares the crossing--through the muddy shallows of the Rio Grande, past the searchlights and the border patrol--the young man encounters an old stranger who could prove to be an ally or an enemy. Manny can't tell for certain. But if he is to achieve his dream, then he must be willing to risk everything--even his life. From the Newbery Award–winning author.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
114 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Manny Bustos
Sergeant Robert S. Locke
Discussion points
How do you think Manny felt when he was trying to cross the border? Can you relate to any of his feelings?
Why is friendship important, as seen in the relationship between Manny and Robert?
What choices did Manny make, and how did they affect his journey? What would you have done in his situation?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in today's world?
What did you learn about resilience and determination from Manny's story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts on Manny’s challenges and ask your child for their perspective.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Manny's shoes to deepen their understanding and empathy towards his situation.
Discuss the significance of Manny and Robert’s friendship and encourage your child to think about their own friendships.
Link discussions to current events or personal experiences to make the story more relevant and engaging.
Praise your child for their insights and thoughts, reinforcing their confidence in expressing their ideas and opinions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'The Crossing', the protagonist, Manny, confronts various challenges as a homeless youth struggling to survive. His determination and resilience shine as he seeks to change his circumstances.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of perseverance and determination when facing their own challenges, whether it's in school or in interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Manny's interactions and experiences evoke empathy in readers, allowing them to understand the difficulties faced by individuals from less privileged backgrounds.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be empathetic towards classmates and peers who may be experiencing hardships, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment.
Example Lesson: The value of hope
Real-World Application: Children learn to remain hopeful and optimistic in their daily endeavors and to use hope as a driving force to motivate their actions and decisions.
Example Lesson: Importance of personal integrity
Explanation: Throughout his journey, Manny is faced with moral dilemmas where he must choose between easy wrongs and difficult rights, highlighting the importance of integrity.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of making honest and ethical choices, even in challenging situations, helping them build strong moral character.