The Dad Dilemma
#3 in Family Ties Series
on Goodreads (23)
What’s inside...
Camilla and Millie are both thirteen-year-olds dealing with their fathers' new relationships. Camilla dislikes her dad's new girlfriend, Abby, and devises multiple plots to get rid of her with the help of her friend Kaori. Millie, on the other hand, is also scheming against her father's new relationship, but enlists her best friend Patrick. As Millie's plans keep failing, her determination grows, but she also starts to develop feelings for Patrick.
Discussion points
How did the main character feel when faced with the dilemma, and what would you have done in their shoes?
What are some ways the dad in the story showed love and care? Can you think of similar examples in our family?
Why is it important to solve problems together? How does teamwork help in difficult situations?
What did you learn about handling unexpected challenges from 'The Dad Dilemma'?
How did the story end, and what do you think could happen next if the book continued?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters to life, helping your child connect emotionally with the story.
Ask your child to predict the outcome at various stages in the book to enhance their analytical thinking and engagement.
After reading, encourage your child to draw or act out their favorite scene, deepening their connection and understanding of the story.
Relate the story’s themes to real-life events in your child’s experiences to make the discussion more relevant and meaningful.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Problem-Solving
Explanation: In 'The Dad Dilemma', the characters face a series of unexpected challenges that they must work through together.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think critically and develop solutions to obstacles they encounter in school or play.
Example Lesson: Value of Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters collaborate to solve problems, highlighting the strength found in working as a team.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to cooperate with others, enhancing their ability to work in group settings at school or in sports.
Example Lesson: Understanding and Empathy
Explanation: The story demonstrates characters putting themselves in others' shoes, promoting empathy.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the feelings of their peers and foster kindness and inclusive behavior.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: As the plot unfolds, characters must adapt to new situations, teaching flexibility.
Real-World Application: Prepares children to adjust to changes such as moving to a new environment or dealing with changes in their routine.