Trevor's Story: Growing Up Biracial (Meeting the Challenge)
What’s inside...
This is a child's story of what it is like to have parents of different races. Here a boy describes his daily life and how other children react with him. The book includes how the family incorporates both parents' cultures and traditions. Ten-year-old Trevor Sage-EL describes his life at home and at school, his feelings about being son of a white mother and a Black father, and what he likes and does not like about being biracial
Discussion points
What feelings did Trevor experience while learning about his dual heritage? Have you ever felt the same way?
How did Trevor handle challenging situations when others didn't understand his background? What would you do in a similar situation?
Why do you think it's important for Trevor to embrace both sides of his family? How can understanding different cultures make us better people?
In what ways did Trevor's parents support him throughout his journey? How do you like to be supported when facing a challenge?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a comfortable and open environment for discussion, where thoughts and feelings can be shared without judgement. Validate your child’s feelings and emphasize that it’s okay to feel different emotions. Use examples from Trevor’s challenges and victories to draw parallels to your child’s experiences, helping them connect with the story on a personal level. Encourage your child to ask questions and express their thoughts about cultural identity and diversity, reinforcing the importance of acceptance and empathy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Cultural Identity
Explanation: In 'Trevor's Story: Growing Up Biracial,' Trevor navigates the challenges and joys of belonging to two different cultures. His journey of self-acceptance is central to the story.
Real-World Application: Children reading this book can learn to appreciate and take pride in their own heritage as well as understand the importance of accepting others for who they are.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Trevor encounters various social challenges and learns to overcome them with the support of his family and friends. This highlights the power of resilience.
Real-World Application: This story can help children understand that while facing difficulties is part of life, overcoming these challenges is possible with determination and the right support.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Support
Explanation: The strong presence of Trevor’s family providing encouragement and understanding plays a crucial role in his development and confidence.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of family bonds and support systems, recognizing the importance of nurturing relationships within their own families.
Example Lesson: Empathy Towards Others
Explanation: As readers follow Trevor's experiences, they witness his interactions with peers who also face their own unique challenges, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be empathetic towards others, understanding different perspectives, and being supportive friends.